outrageous sham

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outrageous sham" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is shockingly false or deceptive, often in a context of criticism or disapproval. Example: "The so-called charity event turned out to be an outrageous sham, with none of the proceeds going to the intended cause."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Outraged and Outrageous.

University of California, Berkeley

There's nothing inherently bad about outrage Ten Walls' statements were undeniably outrageous and wrong but the manner in which the internet generation cycles through the process of electronic admonishment is a hollow sham of discourse.

Vice

Its outrageous.

Harvard University

A sham.

The New York Times

It is outrageous.

University of California, Berkeley

Outrageous and possibly illegal.

Stanford University

That's outrageous.

Harvard University

It's outrageous, it's absolutely outrageous".

Independent

Just outrageous".

The Guardian - Sport

This is obviously outrageous.

Independent

Often, these are outrageous.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "outrageous sham" to describe situations where the deception is not only dishonest but also shockingly unacceptable. It's effective for emphasizing the moral outrage connected with the deceit.

Common error

Avoid using "outrageous sham" for minor exaggerations or harmless deceptions. This phrase carries a strong negative connotation and is best reserved for instances involving significant moral or ethical breaches.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outrageous sham" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object. It labels something as a deceptive act that provokes indignation. Based on Ludwig AI, it is something shocking and false.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "outrageous sham" describes something shockingly false and deceptive, expressing strong disapproval. While grammatically correct, its usage frequency is rare according to Ludwig. It's best employed to condemn significant moral breaches, not minor exaggerations. Related phrases like "blatant deception" or "flagrant fraud" offer alternative ways to convey similar meanings. Remember, according to Ludwig AI, it is something shocking and false.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

blatant deception

Focuses on the obvious and unconcealed nature of the deceit.

flagrant fraud

Emphasizes the scandalous and illegal aspect of the fraudulent activity.

shameless pretense

Highlights the lack of shame or embarrassment in the act of pretending.

egregious hoax

Stresses the remarkably bad and deliberately deceptive nature of the hoax.

scandalous charade

Underscores the shocking and deceptive nature of the performance or display.

brazen falsehood

Highlights the boldness and impudence of the lie.

shameless deception

Emphasizes the lack of remorse or shame associated with the act of deceiving.

palpable deceit

Focuses on how easily noticeable the deception is.

shocking facade

Focuses on the surprising or disturbing nature of the deceptive appearance.

barefaced lie

Emphasizes the open and audacious nature of the lie.

FAQs

How can I use "outrageous sham" in a sentence?

You can use "outrageous sham" to describe something that is shockingly false or deceptive, often in a context of criticism or disapproval. For example, "The so-called charity event turned out to be an outrageous sham, with none of the proceeds going to the intended cause."

What can I say instead of "outrageous sham"?

Alternatives include "blatant deception", "flagrant fraud", or "shameless pretense" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "outrageous sham" or "shameless outrage"?

"Outrageous sham" and "shameless outrage" have different meanings. "Outrageous sham" refers to a shockingly deceitful act, while "shameless outrage" suggests expressing anger without justification. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the situation.

What's the difference between "outrageous sham" and "egregious hoax"?

"Outrageous sham" is a more general term for shocking deception, while "egregious hoax" specifically refers to a deliberately deceptive act designed to trick a large number of people. The best choice depends on context.