morally indefensible

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "morally indefensible" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation, an action, or an opinion that is considered wrong or unethical by many people. For example, "The use of child labor to produce goods is morally indefensible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Opinion

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Morally indefensible.

The Guardian

It is morally indefensible.

The New York Times

This is morally indefensible.

The Guardian - Opinion

Foie gras is morally indefensible.

Independent

Anything else is morally indefensible.

The Guardian

"Things were done which were morally indefensible.

The Guardian

Carter calls this "politically untenable and morally indefensible".

The New York Times - Books

If the allegations are correct, Smollett's behavior is morally indefensible.

The New Yorker

Not only is it morally indefensible, it doesn't make sense.

The New Yorker

The British Medical Association described the case as "morally indefensible".

The Guardian

Without reform it is financially unaffordable and morally indefensible.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "morally indefensible", consider whether a more specific term like 'unjust', 'cruel', or 'dishonest' might better convey the specific ethical violation involved.

Common error

While "morally indefensible" is widely understood, overuse can diminish its impact. In informal settings, consider using less formal alternatives like "just wrong" or "unethical" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "morally indefensible" functions as an evaluative adjective phrase, used to express strong disapproval or condemnation of an action, belief, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in contexts where ethical and moral judgments are being made.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Opinion

30%

Politics

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "morally indefensible" is a powerful adjective phrase used to express strong ethical disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, predominantly in news, opinion pieces, and political discourse. It is grammatically correct and functions to clearly condemn actions, beliefs, or situations considered ethically wrong. While effective, it's important to consider the context and audience to ensure the tone aligns with the intended message. Alternatives such as "morally unjustifiable" or "ethically unacceptable" can offer nuanced options for expressing similar sentiments. Use "morally indefensible" judiciously to maximize its impact and avoid overuse in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

morally unjustifiable

Emphasizes the lack of justification for something on moral grounds.

ethically unacceptable

Focuses on the violation of ethical codes or principles.

morally wrong

A more direct and general way of stating that something is not morally right.

morally reprehensible

Highlights the blameworthiness and deservingness of condemnation.

morally objectionable

Suggests something is offensive or disagreeable from a moral standpoint.

indefensible ethically

Reorders the words for a slightly different emphasis while retaining the core meaning.

morally inexcusable

Similar to unjustifiable but highlights the lack of excuse for the action.

unconscionable

Implies that something is so wrong it shocks the conscience.

revolting to morality

Emphasizes the strong negative emotional reaction provoked by the action's immorality.

utterly immoral

Highlights the complete lack of moral principles behind something.

FAQs

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

You can use "morally indefensible" to describe actions, policies, or beliefs that are considered ethically wrong or unacceptable. For example, "The use of child labor is "morally indefensible"."

What are some alternatives to "morally indefensible"?

Some alternatives include "morally unjustifiable", "ethically unacceptable", or "morally wrong" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "morally indefensible"?

While grammatically correct, "morally indefensible" carries a strong condemnation. Consider the audience and context to ensure it aligns with the intended tone. In some cases, a less charged phrase might be more effective.

What's the difference between "morally indefensible" and "morally untenable"?

"Morally indefensible" suggests something cannot be defended on moral grounds, while "morally untenable" implies that a position or belief cannot be maintained or justified from a moral perspective. The first focuses on the action, the second on the belief system.