it would be deplorable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it would be deplorable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express strong disapproval or condemnation of a situation or action that is considered unacceptable or shameful. Example: "If we allow this injustice to continue, it would be deplorable for our society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"If it turns out to be true it would be deplorable".

The Guardian

"If it were just a cosmetic thing, it would be deplorable behavior.

The New York Times

Labour MP Mike Gapes said it would be "deplorable" if his party failed to back military action in Syria in the wake of the Commons vote.

The Guardian

It would be deplorable if the US and other EU states took the lead while Cameron refused to take similar action".

The Guardian

Seismologists may not be able to forecast earthquakes precisely but it would be deplorable if they were to resign themselves to modelling just the regular, gradual movements of tectonic plates.

The Economist

("We have no knowledge of any information pertaining to this allegation. If it turns out to be true, it would be deplorable," the group said, in a statement quoted in the Times).

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The conditions would be deplorable in any library, but they seem even more so here.

The New York Times

Allowing the man who allowed that to happen into No 10 would be deplorable.

The Guardian

"Such a trip would be deplorable, cynical and hugely inappropriate," said Samantha Power, the US ambassador to the UN.

BBC

It's a pretty deplorable state of affairs when they put people like him in jail - it would be obscene to sentence him to 10 years.

The Guardian

In its judgment, the NMC panel said: "The panel concluded that your conduct was such that it would be considered 'deplorable' and was therefore a sufficiently serious departure from acceptable standards so as to amount to misconduct".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it would be deplorable" to express strong disapproval of actions or situations that violate moral principles or accepted standards of behavior. Consider the specific context to ensure the intensity of the phrase aligns with the intended message.

Common error

Avoid using "it would be deplorable" in casual conversations or informal writing. This phrase carries a significant weight and is more appropriate for formal settings, where a serious tone is required. Opt for milder alternatives in less formal situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it would be deplorable" functions as a declarative statement expressing a strong negative judgment about a hypothetical situation or action. It serves to condemn a potential event as morally or ethically unacceptable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it would be deplorable" is a powerful expression of strong disapproval, typically reserved for formal contexts. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and most frequently found in news and media sources. While effective in conveying condemnation, it's crucial to consider the audience and adjust the tone accordingly, opting for milder alternatives in informal settings. Alternatives include "it would be shameful" and "it would be disgraceful". Proper usage ensures clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it would be reprehensible

Changes the emphasis to the moral unacceptability of the action.

it would be shameful

Shifts the focus to the feeling of disgrace or dishonor.

it would be disgraceful

Similar to shameful, but often implies a violation of standards of conduct.

it would be unacceptable

Emphasizes the lack of permissibility or suitability.

it would be inexcusable

Highlights that there is no justification or excuse for the action.

it would be regrettable

Indicates that the action would cause sorrow or disappointment.

it would be lamentable

Suggests the action is worthy of mourning or deep regret.

it would be appalling

Conveys a sense of shock and disgust.

it would be outrageous

Highlights the extreme or shocking nature of the action.

it would be unconscionable

Emphasizes that the action violates one's conscience or moral principles.

FAQs

How can I use "it would be deplorable" in a sentence?

You can use "it would be deplorable" to express strong disapproval or condemnation. For example, "If the company were to pollute the river, "it would be deplorable"."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "it would be deplorable"?

Similar phrases include "it would be shameful", "it would be disgraceful", or "it would be reprehensible", all expressing strong disapproval.

Is "it would be deplorable" suitable for informal communication?

While grammatically correct, "it would be deplorable" is generally better suited for formal or professional communication due to its strong and serious tone. Consider alternatives like "it would be unacceptable" or "it would be regrettable" for more casual contexts.

What makes "it would be deplorable" different from "it is deplorable"?

"It is deplorable" states a current condition or fact is unacceptable. "It would be deplorable" expresses that a hypothetical or future action would be unacceptable, implying a potential for prevention or change.