lack of virtue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of virtue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a deficiency in moral qualities or ethical behavior in a person or situation. Example: "The politician's lack of virtue was evident in his willingness to compromise his principles for personal gain."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Once again there is a lack of virtue, of a balance of power, of reason itself in such a process.

The Guardian - Opinion

Moments after she was impeached, Park apologised for her "lack of virtue" and the turmoil her relationship with Choi has caused, but resisted calls to step down.

The Guardian

Or if it did, it was an antinomian one, one that forgave a lack of virtue in the name of epicurean delight.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Moore is a genuine populist, but what he can't deal with is the unpleasant possibility that Bush, as people used to say of Nixon, has made a shrewd assessment of the lack of virtue and curiosity in the American public.

The New Yorker

"I wholeheartedly offer words of apology to the people as my lack of virtue and carelessness have caused great confusion at a time when the nation faces challenges over national security and the economy".

The Guardian

Rick Santorum won praise by saying (as he did during the Values Voters Summit in 2010), "Go into the neighborhoods in America where there is a lack of virtue and what will you find?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

The other day I was speaking with a friend who was depressed because of a perceived lack of virtues.

Huffington Post

In the years since, the sport-utility vehicle has become a symbol, to some, of Detroit's lack of corporate virtue.

The New Yorker

Keitel plays The Lieutenant, a cop whose total lack of moral virtue has led him to his current position as a violent pervert with a severe substance abuse problem and an inescapably large gambling debt.

The Guardian - Film

When Governor Bill Weld advocated tough welfare reform as a solution to Massachusetts's problems, Massie replied that attributing poverty to lack of moral virtue was a dubious rationalization that had been used throughout history, from Biblical times on.

The New Yorker

As noted above the founders of the United States tried to reduce the burdens on citizens, because they observed that republics had generally collapsed for lack of civic virtue.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing historical or philosophical contexts, "lack of virtue" can effectively convey the absence of moral qualities considered essential in a specific era or ideology. For example, you could state: "The decline of the Roman Republic was attributed to a widespread "lack of virtue" among its leaders."

Common error

Be careful not to use "lack of virtue" when you actually mean a "lack of skill" or competence. "Lack of virtue" refers specifically to moral deficiencies, not a general inability to perform a task. Make sure to use terms such as "incompetence" or "ineptitude" if skill is what you are looking for.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of virtue" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It refers to the absence or deficiency of moral goodness or ethical principles. Ludwig confirms its correct usage across various contexts. It often acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a condition or characteristic.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lack of virtue" is a noun phrase that describes the absence or deficiency of moral goodness, often used in neutral to formal contexts. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its proper grammatical standing and reveals its prevalence in news, science, and formal settings. While the phrase is used correctly in these contexts, care should be taken to not confuse it with a lack of skill or competence. Related phrases like "absence of morality" or "ethical void" can provide nuanced alternatives. Understanding these subtleties enhances precision in writing and strengthens communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absence of morality

Focuses specifically on the absence of moral principles.

deficiency in ethics

Highlights a shortfall in ethical standards or conduct.

moral bankruptcy

Suggests a complete failure of moral values.

ethical void

Emphasizes the emptiness or absence of ethical considerations.

moral deficit

Implies a shortage or inadequacy in moral qualities.

lack of integrity

Highlights a deficiency in honesty and strong moral principles.

want of principle

Emphasizes the absence of guiding moral rules or beliefs.

moral weakness

Focuses on the susceptibility to unethical behavior.

ethical laxity

Indicates a carelessness or lack of strictness in ethical matters.

absence of rectitude

Rectitude implies moral correctness, so this highlights the opposite.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone has a "lack of virtue"?

Saying someone has a "lack of virtue" means they are deficient in moral qualities, ethical principles, or righteousness. It suggests a moral failing or absence of strong ethical behavior.

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

You can use "lack of virtue" to describe a person's character, a societal trend, or a specific action. For example: "The politician's "lack of virtue" was evident in his corrupt dealings." or "The novel explores the consequences of a society's "lack of virtue".

What are some synonyms for "lack of virtue"?

Some alternatives to "lack of virtue" include "absence of morality", "deficiency in ethics", "moral bankruptcy", or "ethical void". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "lack of virtue" the same as "vice"?

While related, "lack of virtue" and "vice" aren't exactly the same. "Lack of virtue" implies a deficiency or absence of good moral qualities. "Vice", on the other hand, refers to specific immoral behaviors or habits. One might have a "lack of virtue" without necessarily engaging in active vice.