morally unacceptable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "morally unacceptable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is considered wrong or unethical in terms of morality. For example, "The use of child labor in certain developing countries is morally unacceptable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Savulescu and Kahane find such parental autonomy morally unacceptable as well as in violation of much common sense morality.

BMC Medical Ethics

THE Catholic church calls it "morally unacceptable".

The Economist

Is it morally unacceptable to change student loan terms retrospectively?

The Guardian

Those attempts are wrong, historically flawed and morally unacceptable.

The New York Times

He added: "This is logically absurd and morally unacceptable.

The New York Times - Arts

It is, in my view, morally unacceptable to stand out against these new technologies".

Independent

President Barack Obama's handling of this case was legally and morally unacceptable.

The New York Times

The church called the legislation "a dramatically and morally unacceptable change to Irish law".

The New York Times

Failing to act when a baby has a fighting chance of survival is morally unacceptable.

The Economist

"When prices ration access to life-saving technologies, you have morally unacceptable outcomes.

The New York Times

With an air of resignation, Roman Catholic leaders here called the changes "morally unacceptable".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "morally unacceptable", clearly define the moral framework or principle being violated to provide context for your judgment. For example, instead of simply stating "the policy is morally unacceptable", specify "the policy is morally unacceptable because it infringes on basic human rights".

Common error

Avoid using "morally unacceptable" as a generic condemnation without providing a reasoned ethical argument. Ensure your statement is supported by clear moral principles and logical reasoning, not just personal feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "morally unacceptable" functions as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating that something does not align with accepted principles of right and wrong. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and wide applicability in expressing ethical disapproval.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "morally unacceptable" is a common and grammatically sound way to express strong ethical disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, highlighting its prevalence in news, scientific, and formal contexts. While versatile, it's best used with clear justification, specifying the violated moral framework. Alternatives like "ethically indefensible" or "morally wrong" offer similar meanings with subtle nuances. When employing this phrase, grounding your judgment in reasoned ethical principles enhances clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Ethically indefensible

Replaces "morally" with "ethically" maintaining a formal tone but emphasizing broader ethical principles.

Morally wrong

Simplifies the phrasing while retaining the core meaning of moral objection.

Reprehensible conduct

Shifts from a general statement to a focus on specific actions or behaviors, implying strong disapproval.

Unethical practice

Focuses on actions specifically within professional or organizational contexts.

Indefensible action

Highlights the lack of justification for a particular deed, suggesting a breach of moral or ethical standards.

Morally dubious

Indicates uncertainty or suspicion about the morality of something, rather than outright condemnation.

Against one's principles

Personalizes the moral objection, emphasizing a conflict with individual values and beliefs.

Unconscionable behavior

Emphasizes the shock and outrage caused by the behavior, highlighting a severe breach of conscience.

Beyond the pale

An idiomatic expression indicating that something is outside the bounds of what is considered acceptable.

Despicable act

Focuses on the action itself, condemning it as worthy of contempt and aversion.

FAQs

What does "morally unacceptable" mean?

The phrase "morally unacceptable" describes something that is considered wrong, unethical, or offensive according to a particular set of moral principles or values. It implies a strong disapproval based on ethical considerations.

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

You can use "morally unacceptable" to express disapproval of actions, policies, or behaviors. For example: "The use of child labor is "morally unacceptable"", or "The decision to withhold information was "morally unacceptable"".

What are some alternatives to saying "morally unacceptable"?

Alternatives include "ethically indefensible", "morally wrong", "reprehensible conduct", or "unethical practice", depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

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

"Morally unacceptable" refers to a violation of ethical or moral principles, while "legally unacceptable" refers to a violation of laws or regulations. An action can be morally unacceptable but legal, or vice versa, although they often overlap.