moral defect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moral defect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a flaw or imperfection in a person's ethical or moral character. Example: "The character's moral defect ultimately led to their downfall in the story."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Like moral defect, defective reason can prevent someone from recognizing God's existence.

SEP

Uniquely among humankind, it would seem that she is afflicted by not a single moral defect.

The Guardian - Books

While the second part remains largely true, causal theories have moved on from descriptions of a "moral defect".

The Guardian

In today's world, children cannot learn about honor from an organization that views homosexuality as a moral defect.

The New York Times

In such a context, the corollary was that those who neglected to take advantage of the ubiquitous abundance must be suffering from some moral defect.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the grimness of these heroes arose less from the moral defect of being tempted by evil than from their intimate knowledge of its depths.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

David Wasserman questions whether all of these evils can be attributed to individual moral defects, and warns us not to underestimate the role of defective institutions ([ 38]: 38]).

BMC Medical Ethics

Any mental or moral defects or self-interest in the case disqualified witnesses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The poems are uneven and often obscure, pulled in contrary directions by the subjective impulse to fantasy, the mythic and unconscious, and the objective impulse to a diagnosis of the ills of society and the psychological and moral defects of the individuals who constitute it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Wertheimer argues that: "...it is absolutely crucial to distinguish between moral defects in [the exploitee's] background situation and moral defects in the transactions that occur within that situation.

BMC Public Health

In our day, this defect — moral overheating — has been democratized: Anyone can have it.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "moral defect", ensure that the context clearly indicates the specific moral principle being violated or the expected standard of behavior that is not being met.

Common error

Avoid using "moral defect" as a blanket term for any undesirable behavior. Be specific about the moral principle at stake and how the action deviates from it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moral defect" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific flaw or imperfection related to morality. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "moral defect" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant flaw or imperfection in an individual's moral character. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for use in written English. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, specificity and clear context are essential to avoid overgeneralization. Related terms like "ethical failing" and "moral deficiency" offer similar but nuanced alternatives. It is important to consider if you want to focus on morality or code of conduct when choosing a synonym.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moral deficiency

Directly points out the absence of a required moral quality.

moral failing

A general term for a lapse in moral judgment or behavior.

moral weakness

Refers to a susceptibility to immoral temptations or actions.

ethical failing

Emphasizes the failure to adhere to a set of ethical principles.

ethical lapse

Highlights a temporary deviation from ethical conduct.

ethical shortcoming

Suggests a failing relative to an expected standard of ethical behavior.

character flaw

Focuses on the imperfection within a person's character.

flaw in moral judgment

Specifies that the defect lies in the ability to make sound moral decisions.

deficiency in ethics

Highlights the lack of strong moral values and principles.

lack of moral fiber

Indicates a deficiency in moral strength and integrity.

FAQs

How can I use "moral defect" in a sentence?

You can use "moral defect" to describe a flaw in someone's ethical character. For example: "The protagonist's "moral defect" led to a series of poor decisions."

What are some alternatives to saying "moral defect"?

Alternatives include "ethical failing", "moral failing", or "character flaw", depending on the context.

Is "moral defect" the same as "ethical defect"?

While similar, "moral defect" generally refers to a broader flaw in personal character, whereas "ethical defect" might imply a violation of a specific code of conduct or professional ethic.

What's the difference between "moral deficiency" and "moral defect"?

"Moral deficiency" suggests a lack or absence of a particular moral quality, while "moral defect" implies a more significant flaw or imperfection that actively detracts from one's moral character. Both are close synonyms and could be used interchangeably based on the context.