it was not humane

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was not humane" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing actions or behaviors that are considered cruel or lacking compassion towards others, often in contexts related to ethics or morality. Example: "The treatment of the animals in that facility was appalling; it was not humane at all."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It was not humane".

The New Yorker

"The arrival of cold temperatures and icy conditions are certain to increase his suffering, and we have concurred with our veterinarians' judgment that it was not humane for him to suffer further," read a statement released by the college on Sunday.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

I'm not one for the PC human rights brigade, but it's not humane".

Vice

It's hostile; it's not humane.

The Guardian - Books

It's not fair, and it's not humane".

The New York Times

"It is not humane to keep him in jail any longer".

The New York Times

"People say it's not humane," said the 53-year-old Mr. Jones.

The New York Times

When Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg says it is not humane to let homeless people sleep on the steps of a Manhattan church, he implies that the battle here is between the steps and a shelter.

The New York Times

It does not make economic sense to leave headache under-treated, and it is not humane to do so.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

On the other hand, equally unquestionably, it is not humane to ignore the burdens of ill health and disability that they impose.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Because it's not humane.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger alternatives like "inhumane" or "cruel" for more direct condemnation.

Common error

Avoid using "it was not humane" for actions that are simply inconvenient or undesirable. The phrase should be reserved for situations involving a significant lack of compassion or ethical violation, not mere personal preference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was not humane" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, expressing a judgment or evaluation of a particular action or situation. It indicates that something failed to meet a standard of compassion or kindness, as demonstrated by the examples identified by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was not humane" is used to express a lack of compassion or ethical consideration, with Ludwig identifying it as grammatically correct. It is most frequently found in News & Media sources, with some usage in scientific and wiki contexts. While it's a valid and understandable phrase, consider using stronger synonyms like "inhumane" or focusing on specific details of the situation for a more impactful statement. Using this phrase should be reserved for events that involve serious violations of humane principles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was inhumane

A direct synonym, conveying the same meaning of lacking humanity.

it lacked compassion

Emphasizes the absence of empathetic feelings.

it showed no humanity

Explicitly states the absence of human qualities.

it was cruel

A more direct and forceful way to express the lack of humane treatment.

it was heartless

Emphasizes the absence of empathy or caring.

it was callous

Highlights the indifference and insensitivity of the action.

it was merciless

Focuses on the lack of pity or forgiveness in the action.

it was insensitive

Highlights the lack of awareness or consideration for others' feelings.

it was unethical

Shifts the focus to the violation of moral principles.

it was unkind

A milder way to express the lack of humane treatment.

FAQs

What is the difference between "it was not humane" and "it was inhumane"?

Both phrases convey a lack of compassion or cruelty. "It was not humane" is a more descriptive phrase, while "it was inhumane" is a direct adjective. They are largely interchangeable, but "it was inhumane" might carry a stronger emotional charge.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "it was not humane"?

Use "it was not humane" when describing an action or situation that violates basic principles of compassion, kindness, or ethical treatment. This could apply to treatment of animals, people, or any entity deserving of consideration.

Are there situations where "it was not humane" is too strong of a statement?

Yes. Using "it was not humane" for minor inconveniences or disagreements is an overstatement. Reserve it for situations where there is a clear violation of humane principles. Consider alternatives like "it was unfair" or "it was unkind" for less severe situations.

What are some alternatives to "it was not humane"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "it was cruel", "it lacked compassion", "it was heartless", or "it was inhumane". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.