moral laxity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moral laxity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or attitude where there is a lack of strictness or discipline regarding moral standards. Example: "The rise in crime rates in the city can be attributed to a growing sense of moral laxity among its residents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Rhoma's subsequent recordings addressed issues of moral laxity, unemployment, human rights abuses, and other social problems.

Britannica

For some, to be against the act indicates ignorance of the law, moral laxity or both.

The Guardian

A failure to repay debts was once seen as a sign of moral laxity.

The Economist

By placing themselves above the Commandments, they in fact sanctioned moral laxity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Cheating, after all, is simply one manifestation of moral laxity that will not go away without a transformation in values.

The New York Times

Lewis's examination of the moral laxity of humans (sin is just a bonus) is consistently pointed and amusing.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

But others find fault with blaming the English-language Mass for moral and liturgical laxity.

The New York Times

Underdressed tourists are reported to have been attacked outside mosques.The moral and sartorial laxity of tourists threatens, like everything else in Zanzibar, to become a political issue.

The Economist

The Jansenists, who held that in doubtful cases of conscience one should follow the safer view i.e., against permissibility (tutiorism, rigorism)—attacked the benignity of the Jesuit confessors as leading to laxity of morals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Alexis de Tocqueville, that earnest, discriminating, fact-finding French observer of all things American early in our nation's history, was right: "Society is endangered not by the great profligacy of a few but by the laxity of morals amongst all".

Huffington Post

March 2, 1829 Liblar, Germany May 14, 1906 New York City, New York Carl Schurz, (born March 2, 1829, Liblar, near Cologne, Prussia [now in Germany] died May 14 , 1906 New York, N.Y., U.S). German-American political leader, journalist, orator, and dedicated reformer who pressed for high moral standards in government in a period of notorious public laxity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when employing "moral laxity". While suitable for formal writing, in more casual settings, a simpler phrase like "decline in values" might be more effective.

Common error

Avoid using "moral laxity" in very informal conversations, as it can sound overly formal or even pretentious. Opt for simpler terms like "not caring about what's right" or similar alternatives in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moral laxity" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state or condition related to a lack of adherence to moral standards. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's widely used in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "moral laxity" is a noun phrase used to describe a decline in adherence to moral standards. It functions to express concern or criticism regarding this decline and, as Ludwig AI confirms, is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English. Its usage is most common in news, encyclopedias, and academic sources, indicating a formal to neutral register. While effective in formal settings, simpler terms may be preferable in casual conversations. When using "moral laxity", clarify the specific standards being neglected to avoid ambiguity and ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ethical permissiveness

Highlights the allowance of actions that might be considered morally questionable.

decline in moral standards

Focuses on the deterioration of established ethical benchmarks.

erosion of moral values

Emphasizes the gradual loss of principles that guide ethical behavior.

moral permissiveness

Indicates a greater tolerance toward behaviors that deviate from traditional moral norms.

lack of moral rigor

Points to an absence of strictness in applying moral principles.

ethical negligence

Highlights the failure to exercise due care in moral decision-making.

moral decay

Suggests a process of decline and corruption in moral integrity.

absence of moral fibre

Implies a weakness or lack of resilience in adhering to moral convictions.

wavering ethical compass

Describes a lack of clear direction or consistency in ethical guidance.

moral bankruptcy

Conveys a complete failure of moral principles, often in a societal or systemic context.

FAQs

What does "moral laxity" mean?

The term "moral laxity" refers to a lack of strictness, care, or attention to moral principles or ethical standards. It suggests a decline in adherence to what is considered right or virtuous.

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

You might say, "The politician's actions demonstrated a concerning "ethical permissiveness"" or "The report highlighted the "decline in moral standards" within the community".

What are some alternatives to "moral laxity"?

Alternatives include "ethical permissiveness", "decline in moral standards", "erosion of moral values", or a general "lack of moral rigor".

Is "moral laxity" a formal or informal term?

"Moral laxity" is generally considered a formal term suitable for academic writing, news reports, and professional discussions. In more casual contexts, simpler phrases may be more appropriate.