reprehensible

USAGE SUMMARY

'reprehensible' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is deserving of censure, blame, or criticism. For example: "Her behavior was completely reprehensible and completely unacceptable in a professional setting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The plots are boring, the characters dunces, and I find the politics that drive them – from sexual to geopolitical - frequently reprehensible.

The Guardian - Film

Though he argued for Iraq's right to use part of its oil proceeds to buy spare parts for its oil infrastructure, this was not necessarily reprehensible.

The Economist

'If you come to me and say, I hear you're a bigot, I hear you're a paedophile, I hear you cheat on your taxes, you bet your ass I'd stand up and defend myself because those are things I don't want to be associated with and I find reprehensible.

The Guardian - Film

And at no stage has Cameron shown support for Andy, either publicly or privately, and I find that reprehensible.

The Guardian

Horrified campaigners say what they have done is "morally reprehensible".

The Guardian - Opinion

Though he laughed when he first heard about the allegations – he claimed in shock – AFL chief Andrew Demetriou described the incident as "reprehensible".

The Guardian

SBS's reprehensible cowardice in the face of uproar from the political right is disastrous.

The Guardian - Opinion

The campaign group called the cull "morally reprehensible"and accused the council of failing in its public duty.

The Guardian

It is a stupid and reprehensible way of proceeding, though Gordon Brown did it too.

The Guardian - Opinion

Three days after the incident the FSA has issued a statement which AFP quoted: We strongly condemn this kind of irresponsible behaviour and call on all revolutionary forces and the fighters on the ground to condemn such acts These reprehensible acts do not conform with the ethics of the FSA or the Syrian revolution.

The Guardian

People are making claims in the American political agora every day that are equally irrational and equally serve to excuse reprehensible violence and injustice.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reprehensible", clearly articulate why the action is deserving of such strong condemnation. Provide specific details to support your judgment and avoid vague accusations.

Common error

Avoid using "reprehensible" to describe minor offenses or disagreements. Overusing this strong adjective can dilute its impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic or insincere. Consider milder alternatives like "objectionable" or "unacceptable" for less severe situations.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "reprehensible" functions to express strong disapproval and moral condemnation of an action, behavior, or person. Ludwig AI confirms its use in describing acts that are considered morally wrong and deserving of censure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reprehensible" is a powerful adjective used to express strong disapproval and moral condemnation. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in news and formal contexts. It signifies that something is not only wrong but also morally offensive and deserving of censure. When using "reprehensible", ensure the context warrants such a strong term. Alternative phrases include "deplorable", "despicable", and "condemnable". Overusing "reprehensible" in mild situations can dilute its impact. Remember to clearly articulate why an action is deemed "reprehensible" to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deplorable

Indicates strong disapproval and moral outrage, similar to "reprehensible" but perhaps with a stronger emotional charge.

despicable

Suggests a behavior or action that is vile and contemptible, emphasizing the low moral character of the actor.

condemnable

Highlights that an action or behavior deserves strong disapproval and judgment, focusing on the act itself.

blameworthy

Indicates that someone or something deserves blame or responsibility for a fault or wrong, shifting the focus to accountability.

censurable

Implies that an action warrants official or formal reprimand, suggesting a more formal setting.

objectionable

Indicates that something is offensive or unpleasant, a milder form of disapproval than "reprehensible".

unacceptable

Suggests that something does not meet the required standards or norms, often used in a more neutral or professional context.

inexcusable

Implies that there is no justification or valid reason for an action, emphasizing the lack of mitigating circumstances.

outrageous

Conveys a sense of shock and indignation at something perceived as excessively bad or unfair, adding a layer of emotional intensity.

shameful

Indicates that something is so bad that it brings disgrace or dishonor, emphasizing the emotional impact on individuals or groups.

FAQs

How can I use "reprehensible" in a sentence?

Use "reprehensible" to describe actions that are morally wrong and deserve strong condemnation. For example, "The company's exploitation of child labor is a "reprehensible" practice."

What are some synonyms for "reprehensible"?

Alternatives to "reprehensible" include "deplorable", "despicable", and "condemnable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "reprehensible"?

It is appropriate to use "reprehensible" when describing actions that are not only wrong but also morally offensive and deserving of strong condemnation. Ensure the context warrants such a strong term.

What is the difference between "reprehensible" and "wrong"?

"Wrong" is a general term for something incorrect or immoral. "Reprehensible" is a stronger term that specifically describes something morally offensive and deserving of strong condemnation. "Wrong" is a more encompassing term, while "reprehensible" highlights the moral aspect of being wrong.