ignoble deed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ignoble deed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that is morally reprehensible or dishonorable. Example: "The politician's ignoble deed of accepting bribes shocked the entire community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He had blood on his hands, a delirious confession on his lips and an ignoble deed he wanted kept quiet.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

America should follow suit by owning up to its own ignoble deed and recognizing Arbenz as the genuine social progressive that he was.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Many of his stories turn on noble acts undertaken for base reasons, or on ignoble deeds that accomplish worthy ends.

The New York Times - Books

In an open letter to her, the French president, Jacques Chirac, offered to provide "all possible assistance to identify the perpetrators of these ignoble deeds and their commanders, and to bring them before justice".

The New York Times

Just don't go into ignoble debt to do it.

University of California, Berkeley

Having their flank exposed by the flight of the other militia, they turn with disdain from the ignoble example; and fixing their eyes on the Marylanders, whose left they became, determined to vie in deeds of courage with their veteran comrades.

University of Chicago

Many ignoble death.

The Guardian - Tech

Ignoble history happened in America.

The Washington Post

The ignoble effects of the Islamic Revolution.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There is nothing ignoble about this.

Independent

An found his new assignment ignoble.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ignoble deed", ensure that the context clearly establishes the morally reprehensible nature of the action being described. This phrase carries a strong negative connotation and should be reserved for situations where the action is genuinely deserving of condemnation.

Common error

Avoid using "ignoble deed" in situations where the action is merely undesirable or inconvenient, but not morally wrong. This can create a sense of hyperbole and weaken the impact of the phrase when it is used in more appropriate contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ignoble deed" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'ignoble' modifies the noun 'deed'. It acts as a subject or object within a sentence, typically describing an action considered morally reprehensible or dishonorable. Ludwig examples showcase its usage in describing historical events and personal actions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ignoble deed" is a phrase used to describe a morally reprehensible or dishonorable action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While the phrase is relatively rare in modern usage, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. When writing, reserve "ignoble deed" for contexts where strong condemnation is warranted, and be mindful of its somewhat formal tone. Alternatives such as "shameful act" or "dishonorable action" may be more suitable in less formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shameful act

Emphasizes the feeling of shame associated with the action.

dishonorable action

Highlights the lack of honor or integrity in the action.

despicable act

Focuses on the contemptible nature of the action.

reprehensible behavior

Emphasizes the blameworthy and unacceptable nature of the conduct.

base action

Highlights the low moral character associated with the act.

wicked deed

Focuses on the evil or morally wrong nature of the action.

ignominious act

Highlights the humiliating or disgraceful nature of the action.

contemptible action

Emphasizes the feeling of scorn or disdain that the action evokes.

scandalous behavior

Highlights the shock and outrage caused by the action.

atrocious act

Focuses on the extreme cruelty or wickedness of the action.

FAQs

How can I use "ignoble deed" in a sentence?

Use "ignoble deed" to describe a morally reprehensible or dishonorable action. For example: "The politician's "ignoble deed" of accepting bribes shocked the entire community."

What can I say instead of "ignoble deed"?

You can use alternatives like "shameful act", "dishonorable action", or "despicable act" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "ignoble deed" and "wicked deed"?

"Ignoble deed" emphasizes the lack of honor or high moral principles, while "wicked deed" focuses on the inherent evil or malicious intent behind the action. The choice depends on which aspect you want to highlight.

Is "ignoble deed" a formal or informal phrase?

"Ignoble deed" tends to be more formal and literary. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "shameful act" or "bad action" might be more appropriate.