morally intolerable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "morally intolerable" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe any situation or action that is considered wrong or unethical. For example, "The use of child labor in sweatshops is morally intolerable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

That cause was shared by thousands of students, union leaders, academics and middle-of-the-road politicians, who found their own way of life morally intolerable and politically untenable.

The New York Times

Then, it is very difficult to foresee a situation when nuclear weapons could be used in a way which either made strategic sense, or which was not morally intolerable.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Vatican urged its people to boycott the release, saying that it was "morally intolerable".

Wikipedia

Any laws and policies that permit torture and abuse are shocking and morally intolerable.

Huffington Post

Founded in 2004 by Tucson religious leaders and social activists to combat what they deemed "a morally intolerable situation," the organization's main goal is to save lives by providing assistance to migrants crossing the Sonoran Desert, including food and medical help, but mostly water.

Huffington Post

She instead promised researchers it would confer legitimacy on their work, by proving to politicians and the public that it could proceed 'without being put to morally intolerable uses' (1988a, p. 1627).

BioSocieties

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Intolerance is intolerable.

Huffington Post

It would be morally irresponsible for me to do that without, at the same time, condemning the contingent, intolerable conditions that exist in our society.

Huffington Post

Intolerable horns!

The New York Times

Intolerable itching?

The New York Times - Health

Morally wrong".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "morally intolerable" to describe situations or actions that are not only undesirable but also violate fundamental moral principles. For example, "The exploitation of vulnerable populations is morally intolerable."

Common error

Avoid using "morally intolerable" in situations that are merely inconvenient or undesirable. This phrase carries significant weight and should be reserved for matters of serious ethical concern.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "morally intolerable" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to express that something is ethically unacceptable and cannot be condoned. It emphasizes a strong sense of moral outrage or offense. Ludwig provides examples showing its application in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

29%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "morally intolerable" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that expresses strong disapproval of actions or situations deemed ethically unacceptable. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and use in formal writing contexts. While not as common as other similar phrases, it effectively conveys a sense of moral outrage. It's most frequently encountered in news and media, as well as scientific discussions. When employing this phrase, it is important to reserve it for matters of serious ethical concern, avoiding overuse in casual contexts. Alternatives include "morally unacceptable" and "ethically indefensible".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

morally unacceptable

A direct synonym, maintaining the same level of formality and intensity.

ethically unacceptable

Focuses specifically on ethical principles rather than a broader sense of morality.

morally indefensible

Emphasizes the inability to defend the action from a moral perspective.

morally unjustifiable

Stresses the lack of moral grounds for the action.

ethically indefensible

Emphasizes the inability to justify the action from an ethical standpoint.

morally reprehensible

Highlights the deserving of condemnation due to moral failings.

unethically permissible

Indicates that the action should not be permited.

beyond moral limits

Suggests that the action is beyond the boundaries of what is considered moral.

contrary to moral principles

Highlights the conflict between the action and established moral guidelines.

an affront to morality

Presents the action as a direct insult or offense to moral standards.

FAQs

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

Use "morally intolerable" to describe actions or situations that are so offensive to one's moral compass that they cannot be accepted or condoned. For example, "The use of torture is a "morally intolerable" violation of human rights."

What are some alternatives to saying "morally intolerable"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "morally unacceptable", "ethically indefensible", or "morally reprehensible".

Is there a difference between "morally intolerable" and "morally unacceptable"?

While both phrases convey disapproval, "morally intolerable" often suggests a stronger sense of outrage or offense compared to "morally unacceptable". The former implies a higher degree of ethical violation.

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

It is most appropriate to use "morally intolerable" when describing situations or behaviors that are deeply offensive to fundamental moral principles and values. It is suitable when the issue goes beyond simple disagreement and enters the realm of ethical violation.