morally objectionable

USAGE SUMMARY

"morally objectionable" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means something is considered wrong or bad from a moral standpoint. For example: The mayor's decision to cut funding for the homeless shelter was seen as morally objectionable by the city's residents.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Far from being morally objectionable, it was one of the stock hobbies of country vicars.

Independent

To John Simon, the film is "morally objectionable, and artistically and intellectually insufficient".

The Guardian - Film

Using the phrase "morally objectionable" does point the finger, though, doesn't it?

The Guardian

Many people find same-sex unions morally objectionable, and that is their prerogative.

The Guardian - Opinion

But from any angle, the situation was "morally objectionable to me, and, I think, to all Americans," he said.

The New Yorker

This study evaluates an educational intervention focusing on the ethical reasoning and communication skills necessary in counseling patients about morally objectionable medical interventions.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

They do not remove the necessary, morally objectionable cooperation required of these institutions with this "neutral" mandate.

The New York Times

Society has to climb down from the position that there is nothing morally objectionable about abortion before a certain time.

The Guardian

Whereas this year's Grammys were kind of depressing, we can count on the VMAs to be a slightly morally objectionable mess of good theatre.

Independent

She pointed to Mr. Romney's statement of support last winter for the Blunt Amendment, which would allow employers to deny health coverage for procedures they find morally objectionable.

The New York Times

Washington's policy makers would do well to support and publicize these advances rather than continuing to raise false and unrealized hopes for morally objectionable avenues of research.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "morally objectionable", clearly state the specific moral principle being violated to strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "morally objectionable" as a knee-jerk reaction in emotionally charged arguments. Always provide a reasoned explanation of the underlying moral principle at stake.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "morally objectionable" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It serves to describe something as being contrary to accepted moral principles. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "morally objectionable" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something considered wrong or unacceptable from a moral standpoint. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, noting its applicability across diverse contexts. As demonstrated by the examples, this phrase frequently appears in News & Media and scientific discussions. While there are several alternatives such as "ethically unacceptable" or "morally unacceptable", it's important to use the phrase accurately, backing up assertions with reasoned explanations of why something is considered "morally objectionable".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

morally unacceptable

This is a direct synonym, emphasizing the unacceptability from a moral standpoint.

morally wrong

A simpler and more direct way to express the moral objection, suitable for less formal contexts.

objectionable on moral grounds

This alternative explicitly states the basis of the objection as being moral principles.

ethically unacceptable

Focuses specifically on ethical principles being violated, a nuance not always present in "morally objectionable".

morally reprehensible

Combines the intensity of "reprehensible" with the specific moral context of the objection.

contrary to moral principles

This phrase highlights the conflict with established moral guidelines or beliefs.

in violation of moral standards

This alternative suggests a breach of accepted moral standards or norms.

reprehensible

Implies strong disapproval and condemnation, adding a layer of intensity to the objection.

ethically compromised

Indicates that ethical principles have been violated or weakened, implying a loss of integrity.

ethically dubious

Suggests uncertainty or doubt regarding the ethical nature, rather than a firm objection.

FAQs

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

You can use "morally objectionable" to describe actions, policies, or beliefs that violate moral principles. For example, "Many consider the exploitation of child labor to be "morally objectionable"."

What are some alternatives to saying "morally objectionable"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "ethically unacceptable", "morally unacceptable", or "reprehensible" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "morally objectionable" or "ethically objectionable"?

Both phrases are correct, but "morally objectionable" refers to a broader sense of right and wrong, while "ethically objectionable" usually relates to professional or codified ethics.

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

"Morally wrong" is a more direct and simple expression of moral disapproval. "Morally objectionable" implies a stronger, more reasoned opposition and suggests that something should be actively opposed.