morally abhorrent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "morally abhorrent" is correct and commonly used in written English.
Example: The actions of the dictator were morally abhorrent, causing widespread outrage and condemnation from the international community.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On her view, a person who, in acting on some morally deficient principle, does morally abhorrent things may have personal integrity even if not moral integrity.

SEP

On the other hand, he found the sloppiness of Gosse's casual belletrism almost morally abhorrent.

The New Yorker

This is not to suggest that reporting on violence is always morally abhorrent.

The New Yorker

"Bankruptcy is morally abhorrent and is not consistent with the values we hold," the committee said.

The New York Times

But laissez-faire appeared absurd, as well as morally abhorrent, to Keynes.

Independent

Doctors who find abortions morally abhorrent are not obliged to perform them.

The New York Times

This is a reminder that, however morally abhorrent, terrorism is a social activity like any other.

The Guardian - Books

It is, of course, morally abhorrent that the American economy should be so riddled with exploitation.

The New York Times

It called the destruction of cloned human embryos "a morally abhorrent prospect".

The New York Times

Sex, meanwhile, is physically and morally abhorrent, and carried out with prostitutes or underage girls.

The Guardian - Books

Labour's acting leader, Harriet Harman, supported the inquiry, saying that any incidents of torture were "morally abhorrent".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "morally abhorrent", ensure that the context clearly establishes the moral framework being violated. The impact of the statement is greater when the moral basis is evident.

Common error

Avoid using "morally abhorrent" excessively in emotionally driven pieces. Overuse can diminish the phrase's impact, making it seem hyperbolic. Reserve it for situations where the moral transgression is genuinely severe.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "morally abhorrent" functions as a descriptive adjective, modifying a noun to express a strong negative moral judgment. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "morally abhorrent" is a powerful descriptor used to express deep moral disgust and condemnation. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. It appears most often in news and media, academic, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the moral basis for the judgment is clear. Related phrases include "morally repugnant" and "morally reprehensible", each carrying slightly different nuances. While common, avoid overuse to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

morally repugnant

Indicates a strong feeling of disgust and aversion.

morally reprehensible

Suggests deserving of strong condemnation.

morally offensive

Implies causing outrage or displeasure based on moral principles.

morally objectionable

Indicates something is open to disapproval on moral grounds.

morally indefensible

Highlights the lack of justification for something based on moral standards.

morally unacceptable

Suggests a lack of adherence to moral standards.

ethically wrong

Focuses on a breach of ethical principles.

morally wrong

A more general term indicating a violation of moral principles.

morally dubious

Implies uncertainty or suspicion about the morality of something.

utterly immoral

Emphasizes the complete lack of moral principles.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "morally abhorrent" in a sentence?

Use "morally abhorrent" to describe actions, beliefs, or practices that deeply offend fundamental moral principles. For example: "The dictator's actions were "morally abhorrent", violating basic human rights."

What are some alternatives to saying "morally abhorrent"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "morally repugnant", "morally reprehensible", or "ethically wrong" to convey similar meanings.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "morally abhorrent"?

It's appropriate when describing something that elicits strong moral disgust or condemnation. Ensure the context provides a clear understanding of why it's considered "morally abhorrent".

What distinguishes "morally abhorrent" from "morally wrong"?

"Morally wrong" is a broader term for any action violating moral principles. "Morally abhorrent" implies a much stronger level of disgust and revulsion. Something "morally abhorrent" evokes a deep sense of outrage, going beyond a simple violation of moral standards.