moral destitution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moral destitution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of lacking moral principles or ethical standards. Example: "The community faced moral destitution, leading to a rise in crime and corruption."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

At heart an unlovely love story illuminated by sudden flares of violence, the film reeks of hopelessness and moral destitution, offering its lovers few means of escape.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Once solely a matter of moral concern, the nation's destitution has become a security threat because it has helped create a fertile recruiting ground -- and a compliant host -- for Osama bin Laden.

The New York Times

The Pope's forthcoming encyclical, or teaching letter, entitled Laudato Si, is addressed to the world's 1.2 billion Catholics and is expected to be a dramatic intervention in the international political process, insisting that the fight against global warming, no less than the fight against misery and destitution, is a moral issue which must be addressed by the whole world.

Independent

As the 19th-century progressed, more and more Britons recognised that society wasn't entirely fair, that the laws of economics were not necessarily the laws of nature (let alone of God) and that accident and circumstance could be as (or more) culpable for human destitution as personal moral failure.

The Guardian - Opinion

The criminal justice system, when [it] fines or imprisons, ensures a person's basic needs are met – there can be no argument, moral or utilitarian, that justifies a policy of deliberate destitution".

Independent

"Breaking the hold of destitution is far less expensive than bearing the moral and financial costs of permitting acute poverty to continue.

Unicef

They were near to destitution.

The Guardian - Books

Think food banks, evictions, and destitution.

The Guardian

"The Home Office have forced us into destitution.

The Guardian

Destitution is a powerful motivating force.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is much suffering and destitution.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "moral destitution" to describe situations or societies where there is a significant lack of ethical or moral principles guiding behavior.

Common error

Avoid using "moral destitution" to describe minor lapses in judgment. Reserve it for situations indicating a profound absence of moral values.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moral destitution" functions as a noun phrase, where 'moral' acts as an adjective specifying the type of destitution. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is used to describe a condition or state.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "moral destitution" is a relatively rare but grammatically correct expression used to describe a state of lacking moral principles. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to critically assess situations marked by a significant absence of ethical values. While alternatives like "ethical bankruptcy" and "moral decay" exist, "moral destitution" carries a specific weight implying a complete lack of moral resources. When using this phrase, ensure the context warrants its severity, reserving it for situations where moral failings are profound.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ethical bankruptcy

Emphasizes the complete absence of ethical principles, akin to financial bankruptcy.

moral decay

Focuses on the gradual decline of moral standards over time.

lack of moral fiber

Highlights the absence of strength and resilience in upholding moral values.

ethical void

Suggests an emptiness or absence of ethical considerations.

moral impoverishment

Indicates a state of being deprived of moral richness or values.

decline in moral values

Focuses on the deterioration of established moral principles.

erosion of ethics

Highlights the gradual wearing away of ethical standards.

moral vacuum

Similar to 'ethical void', suggesting a space devoid of moral guidance.

absence of morality

Directly states the lack of moral principles.

ethical deficiency

Indicates a shortage or inadequacy of ethical qualities.

FAQs

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

You can use "moral destitution" to describe a state of lacking moral principles or ethical standards. For example: "The community faced moral destitution, leading to a rise in crime and corruption."

What are some alternatives to "moral destitution"?

Alternatives include "ethical bankruptcy", "moral decay", or "lack of moral fiber" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "moral destitution" a formal or informal term?

"Moral destitution" is generally considered a formal term suitable for academic, journalistic, or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "moral destitution" and "moral poverty"?

"Moral destitution" implies a complete absence of moral principles, while "moral poverty" suggests a lack of moral resources or development. Destitution is a more severe state.