lack of probity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of probity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or individual that demonstrates a deficiency in integrity or honesty. Example: "The investigation revealed a lack of probity in the financial dealings of the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

During his stint as prime minister, Mr Netanyahu was damned for lack of probity, decency and much else besides.

The Economist

(These days, by the way, he says he wants to host, in Sicily, a conference to make peace in the Middle East).Even before his latest outburst, Italians of all stripes had been embarrassed by the hail of sneering and abuse, mainly on account of his perceived lack of probity in public life, that had greeted his uptake of the EU presidency (see article).

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But to find that Tory MPs are setting themselves up as non-executives on companies that are connected to these places where there is such a lack of scrutiny and probity is just reprehensible and beyond belief," she said.

The Guardian - Business

I've always suspected that this showed a lack of trust in the probity of the sausage.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Sure, that image of probity or authority is a lie, but people want to believe it".

The New York Times - Magazine

REMNICK: A man of probity.

The New Yorker

They were works of probity, even poetry.

The New York Times - Books

Lurking beneath is a sense of probity and steely resolve, the idea that the person who hasn 't already "got over it" is somehow lacking in inner purpose.

Independent

The purpose was to give a sense of probity.

The New Yorker

Even countries with a history of probity often screw up their financial markets.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Recent Recordings of Aspersions cast upon the Vernal Season by persons of probity and consequence.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "lack of probity" with a prepositional phrase specifying the area affected, such as "lack of probity in financial dealings" or "lack of probity in public life".

Common error

While "lack of probity" is grammatically correct, it sounds overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "dishonesty" or "lack of integrity" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of probity" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the subject or object of a sentence, to denote a deficiency in moral integrity or honesty. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lack of probity" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that denotes a deficiency in moral integrity or honesty. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. While the phrase is relatively formal and uncommon, it finds primary usage in news, media, and academic contexts. When using "lack of probity", ensure the context clearly defines the specific area where integrity or honesty is deficient for maximum clarity. Although "lack of probity" is a valid phrase, simpler terms may be more appropriate for informal use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absence of integrity

Emphasizes the complete absence of moral principles.

deficiency in honesty

Focuses specifically on the shortage of truthfulness.

want of integrity

A more formal and somewhat archaic way to express a lack of integrity.

ethical shortcomings

Highlights failings in moral conduct.

moral bankruptcy

Suggests a complete collapse of ethical standards.

unethical conduct

Directly points to behavior that violates ethical principles.

dishonesty

A straightforward term for not being truthful or honest.

lack of rectitude

Rectitude implies moral correctness and uprightness; this phrase indicates a deficiency thereof.

dubious ethics

Suggests ethics that are questionable or unreliable.

questionable integrity

Highlights that someone's integrity is not assured or trustworthy.

FAQs

How can I use "lack of probity" in a sentence?

You can use "lack of probity" to describe a situation or individual that demonstrates a deficiency in integrity or honesty. For example: "The investigation revealed a lack of probity in the financial dealings of the organization."

What are some alternatives to "lack of probity"?

You can use alternatives like "absence of integrity", "deficiency in honesty", or "ethical shortcomings" depending on the context.

Is "lack of probity" formal or informal?

"Lack of probity" is a formal expression, best suited for professional, academic, or news-related contexts. In informal settings, simpler terms like "dishonesty" or "lack of integrity" may be more appropriate.

What does "lack of probity" imply?

"Lack of probity" implies a deficiency in moral principles, honesty, and integrity. It suggests that someone or something does not adhere to high ethical standards.