morally deplorable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "morally deplorable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions, behaviors, or situations that are considered ethically wrong or unacceptable. Example: "The decision to exploit vulnerable populations for profit is morally deplorable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

In fact, most environmentalists not only disagree with this idea, they find it morally deplorable.

The Economist

Moreover, if, as I suspect, such an attack by the U.S. were motivated by the intention to try to influence the outcome of the November elections (in favor of McCain), this would make such an attack all the more legally and morally deplorable.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Because the verdict of these elites is that a broad swath of the Republican Party is morally blind, intolerably biased and deplorable, at least by their standards.

Huffington Post

The group noted that last June, Pope Benedict was quick to criticize the raiding of church property by the Belgian police as "deplorable" and said that his failure to condemn Bishop Vangheluwe was "baffling and morally inexcusable".

The New York Times

As long as they stand in the way of morally obvious and science-based reforms, they will continue to be defined by their most deplorable actions.

Huffington Post

Deplorable scenes.

The New York Times - Science

This is deplorable.

The New York Times

Morally wrong".

The New York Times

"I find it deplorable.

The New York Times

That's deplorable.

The New York Times

Sexual harassment is deplorable.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "morally deplorable" to express strong disapproval or condemnation of actions or beliefs that violate fundamental ethical principles. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing the ethical implications rather than practical concerns.

Common error

Avoid using "morally deplorable" in casual conversation or informal writing. Its strong and somewhat formal tone can sound overly dramatic or pretentious in less serious contexts. Consider using milder alternatives like "wrong" or "unacceptable" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "morally deplorable" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun. It serves to attribute a strong negative moral judgment to the thing being described, indicating that it is ethically offensive and deserving of condemnation. Ludwig's examples show it used in news and media to describe actions or situations considered highly unethical.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "morally deplorable" is an adjective phrase used to express strong disapproval of actions or beliefs considered ethically offensive. Ludwig's analysis reveals that this phrase, while grammatically correct, is relatively rare and primarily found in news and media contexts. It serves to highlight the ethical implications of a situation and invoke a sense of condemnation. Alternatives such as "morally reprehensible" or "ethically unacceptable" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. While considered usable in English by Ludwig AI, it’s crucial to avoid overuse in informal settings, where its strong tone may seem overly dramatic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

morally reprehensible

Highlights the blameworthy and censurable nature of the action or belief.

ethically unacceptable

Focuses on the violation of ethical principles and standards.

morally indefensible

Emphasizes the inability to justify the action from a moral standpoint.

morally objectionable

Indicates that the action or belief is likely to offend moral sensibilities.

morally repugnant

Suggests a strong feeling of disgust and aversion.

utterly detestable

Emphasizes the hatred and loathing associated with the action or belief.

morally wrong

A more general and direct condemnation of the action.

deeply unethical

Stresses the profound violation of ethical codes.

morally corrupt

Highlights the depravity and decay of moral values involved.

completely immoral

Underscores the total lack of morality in the action or belief.

FAQs

How can I use "morally deplorable" in a sentence?

You can use "morally deplorable" to describe actions, behaviors, or situations that are considered ethically wrong or unacceptable. For example: "The exploitation of vulnerable populations for profit is considered "morally deplorable".

What are some synonyms for "morally deplorable"?

Alternatives to "morally deplorable" include "morally reprehensible", "ethically unacceptable", or "morally indefensible" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "morally deplorable" a formal phrase?

Yes, "morally deplorable" carries a formal and somewhat emphatic tone. It's best suited for situations where you want to express strong ethical disapproval in a serious context.

What's the difference between "morally deplorable" and "morally wrong"?

"Morally wrong" is a more general and common term for actions that violate moral principles. "Morally deplorable" implies a stronger level of condemnation and suggests that the action is particularly offensive or shocking.