doing something unmentionable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "doing something unmentionable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an action that is considered inappropriate, taboo, or too sensitive to discuss openly. Example: "He was rumored to be doing something unmentionable that could ruin his reputation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Others spotted Lisa Simpson doing something unmentionable.

The New York Times - Arts

But we don't need this memory to be reminded: one of Genzken's huts is wallpapered with porno images of two young men doing something unmentionable.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Takeovers, departures, competition – Happy Eater: boo! – sneers, disdain, the LCs have seen it all, including the almost ultimate indignity, in 2004, when there was a proposal to do something unmentionable to the famous logo, Fat Charlie: they wanted him to slim down, become more healthy, more relevant.

The Guardian - Opinion

You are doing something.

The New York Times

Monks, doing something pastoral.

Forbes

Doing something?

WikiHow

Propose doing something illegal.

WikiHow

You're doing something.

WikiHow

Always be doing something.

WikiHow

"They are your best friends, you go through everything together, and then you go and do something like this and you have basically kicked them in the unmentionables".

BBC

Do something.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "doing something unmentionable" when you want to hint at an action that is inappropriate or taboo without explicitly describing it. This can add intrigue or humor to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "doing something unmentionable" too frequently, as it can become repetitive and lose its impact. Vary your language with more specific or nuanced descriptions when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "doing something unmentionable" functions as a nominal phrase, acting as the direct object of a verb or as a subject complement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "doing something unmentionable" is a phrase used to indirectly refer to an action considered taboo or too sensitive to discuss openly. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable in English. While relatively rare in occurrence, the phrase appears primarily in news and media contexts. When writing, be mindful of the potential for overuse and consider alternative, more specific phrasing to avoid repetition. Remember to consider the sensitivity of the context and audience when employing this euphemistic expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

committing an unspeakable act

This alternative implies a serious transgression that is too horrible to describe.

engaging in indecent behavior

This phrase focuses on the lack of propriety in the action.

performing a scandalous deed

This suggests the action is shocking and likely to cause public outrage.

carrying out a shameful act

This highlights the feeling of disgrace associated with the action.

indulging in forbidden activities

This suggests the action is against rules or laws, and is pleasurable to the one doing it.

participating in immoral conduct

This alternative emphasizes the violation of moral principles.

getting up to no good

This is a more casual, understated way to describe questionable actions.

misbehaving in an egregious manner

This suggests a serious violation of expected behavior.

acting in a way that defies description

This highlights the impossibility or extreme difficulty to describe the action.

crossing the line of decency

This phrase suggests that boundaries of acceptable behavior have been overstepped.

FAQs

What does "doing something unmentionable" mean?

It means performing an action that is considered too inappropriate, taboo, or sensitive to be openly discussed. It's a euphemistic way of referring to something scandalous or offensive.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "doing something unmentionable"?

It's appropriate when you want to allude to a sensitive topic without being explicit, or when you want to create a sense of mystery or humor. However, avoid using it in contexts where clarity and directness are essential.

What are some alternatives to "doing something unmentionable"?

Alternatives include "committing an unspeakable act", "engaging in indecent behavior", or "performing a scandalous deed", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "doing something unmentionable" in a sentence?

For example, "The rumors suggested he was "doing something unmentionable" that could jeopardize his career", or "The cartoon showed Lisa Simpson "doing something unmentionable", which sparked controversy".