degree of wickedness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "degree of wickedness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the extent or level of evil or immoral behavior in a person or action. Example: "The degree of wickedness displayed by the villain in the story shocked the readers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Despite this heads-up, the degree of wickedness in his stylish legal thriller still delivers a chill.

The New York Times - Books

"Men go from one degree of wickedness to another," the town's minister said in a sermon at the gallows titled "Excessive Wickedness, the Way to an untimely Death".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

To oppose their development is to be effete to the point of wickedness.

The Guardian

Wickedness isn't a degree of difficulty.

Harvard Business Review

"Is it an act of wickedness, or what?

The New York Times

He talked a long time of wickedness and sin.

The New Yorker

There is no intimation of wickedness, of deliberate wrongdoing.

The Guardian - Books

"Tolerance of wickedness and sin is no family value".

The New York Times

Or the captivating spectacle of wickedness triumphant, at least.

The New York Times

(At least, I think so; the scenes of wickedness are patchy).

The New Yorker

But one form of wickedness he decried haunts us still, proud and unrepentant: the lawyer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "degree of wickedness" to emphasize the varying levels of immorality in characters or situations, especially when contrasting lesser and greater evils. For example, "While petty theft is wrong, the degree of wickedness involved in embezzlement is far greater."

Common error

Avoid using "degree of wickedness" to describe simple mistakes or misunderstandings. This phrase is best suited for actions that involve intentional and significant moral failings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "degree of wickedness" functions as a noun phrase often used to qualify the extent or intensity of immoral behavior. This usage is supported by Ludwig, indicating it is grammatically sound and applicable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "degree of wickedness" is grammatically correct, though rarely used, and serves to describe the extent or intensity of immoral behavior. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's a valid and usable expression. While alternatives such as "level of depravity" or "extent of malice" exist, "degree of wickedness" maintains its unique emphasis on the varying levels of evil. It's most frequently encountered in news and media contexts, indicating its relevance in discussions of ethical and societal issues. When employing this phrase, consider the target audience and the specific nuance you want to convey to ensure accurate impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

level of depravity

Focuses specifically on moral corruption and degradation.

extent of malice

Highlights the depth and scope of ill will or spite.

depth of iniquity

Emphasizes the profound nature of sin or wrongdoing.

magnitude of evil

Draws attention to the scale and impact of wickedness.

scope of immorality

Indicates the range and prevalence of unethical behavior.

intensity of corruption

Highlights the strength and pervasiveness of moral decay.

seriousness of sin

Focuses on the gravity and consequences of sinful actions.

measure of villainy

Quantifies the extent to which someone embodies villainous traits.

depth of sinfulness

Emphasizes the profundity of being in a state of sin.

scale of transgression

Indicates the size and severity of wrongdoing.

FAQs

How can I use "degree of wickedness" in a sentence?

You can use "degree of wickedness" to describe the intensity or extent of immoral or evil behavior. For instance, "The "degree of wickedness" displayed by the dictator shocked the world".

What are some alternatives to "degree of wickedness"?

Some alternatives include "level of depravity", "extent of malice", or "depth of iniquity". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "degree of wickedness" in formal writing?

Yes, "degree of wickedness" can be used in formal writing, especially when discussing moral or ethical issues. However, be mindful of the audience and context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.

What's the difference between "degree of wickedness" and "act of wickedness"?

"Degree of wickedness" refers to the intensity or extent of evil, while "act of wickedness" refers to a specific instance of evil action. One describes a state, the other a deed.