lack of manners

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of manners" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone's manners not being proper or courteous. For example, you could say, "John was scolded by his teacher for his lack of manners."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Lack of manners.

The Guardian - Music

Surely this shows lack of manners -- and eventual damage to that bench.

The New York Times

A person's lack of manners, he argues, should not condemn him to perpetual derision.

The New York Times - Books

Uffe Ellemann-Jensen, a former foreign minister, laments his country's lack of manners.

The Economist

It was so Murdochian: the suddenness, the secrecy, the game-changing, the lack of manners, the audacity.

The Guardian

The lack of manners, common sense, basic compassion, let alone empathy used to drive me to distraction.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

9. Lack of (religion, manners, money) is the root of all evil.

The New York Times

It is proof of a lack of good manners and upbringing.

The Guardian - Sport

Though many lament the lack of good manners in real life, the online universe is setting its own (unofficial) code of conduct.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

General opinion seems to regard London's black-cab drivers as a bunch of Luddites unworthy of protection on account of their arrogance, lack of road manners and shunning of journeys they don't fancy.

The Guardian - Business

I despise your quick answers, your slogans in the subways, and most of all I despise your lack of good manners: you'll never have 'em as long as you exist.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific situation where someone's behavior was inappropriate, provide concrete examples to illustrate the "lack of manners". Instead of just stating it, show it through actions or words.

Common error

While "lack of manners" is widely understood, it can sometimes sound informal or judgmental in professional settings. Consider using more neutral language like "unprofessional behavior" or "failure to adhere to protocol" to maintain a more objective tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of manners" functions as a noun phrase expressing the absence or deficiency of polite and socially acceptable behavior. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used to describe instances where etiquette and courteous conduct are not observed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

18%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of manners" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe the absence of polite and socially acceptable behavior. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely understood. While it appears frequently in news and general discussions, more formal alternatives might be preferable in academic or professional settings. Key synonyms include "impoliteness", "discourtesy", and "poor etiquette". When using the phrase, provide concrete examples to enhance clarity. While the phrase is commonly used, it's important to be mindful of the context to ensure appropriate language is used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impoliteness

Focuses on the quality of being rude or discourteous, a direct attribute stemming from the absence of manners.

discourtesy

Highlights a specific instance or pattern of rude behavior, rather than a general absence of manners.

rudeness

Emphasizes the offensive nature of the behavior resulting from the absence of manners.

poor etiquette

Specifically refers to a failure to adhere to accepted social codes of conduct.

absence of civility

Emphasizes the absence of respectful and considerate behavior in interactions.

bad behavior

General term for unacceptable actions, which could include but isn't limited to "lack of manners".

boorishness

Describes a crude and insensitive manner of behavior, often associated with a "lack of manners".

social ineptitude

Points to a broader deficiency in understanding and navigating social situations, of which manners are one aspect.

lack of social skills

Highlights a broader deficiency in interpersonal abilities, encompassing more than just politeness.

ungentlemanly conduct

Specifically refers to behavior considered inappropriate for a man, implying a deviation from traditional standards of courtesy.

FAQs

How to describe a "lack of manners" in a more formal way?

In professional or academic contexts, consider using phrases like "breach of etiquette", "unprofessional conduct", or "failure to observe protocol" to convey the same meaning as a "lack of manners" with a more objective tone.

What are some synonyms for "lack of manners" that I can use in my writing?

Alternatives to "lack of manners" include "impoliteness", "discourtesy", "rudeness", or "poor etiquette", each carrying slightly different connotations.

How does "lack of manners" differ from "bad behavior"?

"Lack of manners" specifically refers to a deficiency in polite and courteous conduct, whereas "bad behavior" is a broader term encompassing any action deemed unacceptable or inappropriate.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "lack of manners" in an academic paper?

While grammatically correct, "lack of manners" might be perceived as informal in academic writing. Consider using more formal alternatives like "failure to observe social norms" or "breach of etiquette" for a more appropriate tone.