moral flaw

USAGE SUMMARY

"moral flaw" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a moral shortcoming or weakness. For example: "The politician's reputation was tarnished by their uncompromising stance on the issue, which exposed a moral flaw in their character."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Perhaps this is some MORAL FLAW in my liberal personality?

The New York Times

The Bible is to be applauded for identifying that moral flaw.

The Guardian

Within Misty's pages, the slightest moral flaw led to suffering and/or death – and readers lapped it up.

The Guardian - Books

This imperfection later came to be interpreted as a moral flaw, such as Othello's jealousy or Hamlet's irresolution, although most great tragedies defy such a simple interpretation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Pretty much ever since, critics have spent a lot of time arguing whether hamartia means a moral flaw or a tragic error.

The Guardian - Sport

To Kim and Farmer, the moral flaw in the bank's approach was that it imposed mandates with little concern for how cutting budgets might affect people's health.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

At first, the moral flaws seem obvious.

The New York Times

Officials proposed changing regional election laws to forbid candidates with "moral flaws" from running.

The New York Times

Do we accept a character's moral flaws if we read about them?

The New Yorker

Although you are supposed to care about those characters despite their moral flaws.

The New York Times - Magazine

Naming a building after Gladstone risks glorification as it doesn't give due weight to his moral flaws.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific nuance you want to convey. A "moral flaw" suggests an inherent imperfection, while a "moral failing" may imply a specific instance of wrongdoing.

Common error

While "moral flaw" is a valid phrase, it can sound overly formal or judgmental in casual conversation. Opt for more accessible language like "character weakness" or "ethical problem" when communicating informally.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moral flaw" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific type of imperfection related to moral character, according to Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "moral flaw" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote a deficiency or imperfection in someone's moral character. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While "moral flaw" is not exceedingly common, it appears most frequently in news and media, encyclopedias and science. Alternatives include "moral defect", "moral failing", and "moral weakness", each with subtle differences in meaning. When using this phrase, consider your audience and the level of formality appropriate for the context. Overusing "moral flaw" in casual conversation can come off as overly judgmental. This analysis helps refine your understanding and application of "moral flaw" in various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moral defect

This alternative suggests a basic deficiency in someone's moral character, similar to "moral flaw" but more direct.

moral failing

This phrase highlights an instance where someone fails to meet moral standards, similar in implication but emphasizing the act.

moral weakness

This suggests a susceptibility to immoral behavior, indicating a lack of moral strength, slightly softer in tone.

character defect

This option focuses on a flaw in overall character, which may include but isn't limited to moral aspects.

ethical shortcoming

Using "ethical shortcoming" introduces a more formal and philosophical tone, referring to a failure in ethical conduct.

lapse in judgment

This option points to a specific instance of poor moral decision-making, focusing on the decision rather than the inherent trait.

ethical breach

This highlights a violation of ethical rules or principles, often used in professional or formal contexts.

lack of integrity

This phrase signifies a deficiency in honesty and strong moral principles, pointing to a broader absence rather than a specific flaw.

corruption

This term implies a severe form of moral flaw involving dishonesty and abuse of power.

moral bankruptcy

This phrase suggests a complete absence of moral values or principles, stronger than a simple "moral flaw".

FAQs

What is the difference between a "moral flaw" and a "moral failing"?

A "moral flaw" suggests an inherent imperfection in someone's character, whereas a "moral failing" refers to a specific instance of failing to meet moral standards. The former is a trait, the latter an action.

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

You can use "moral flaw" to describe a character's imperfection, such as, "His inability to empathize with others revealed a significant moral flaw."

What are some alternatives to "moral flaw"?

Alternatives include "moral weakness", "character defect", or "ethical shortcoming". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "moral flaw" always a negative attribute?

Yes, "moral flaw" inherently carries a negative connotation, indicating a deficiency or imperfection in someone's moral character. It implies a deviation from accepted ethical standards.