shameful move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shameful move" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or decision that is considered morally wrong or disgraceful. Example: "The company's decision to cut employee benefits during a profitable year was seen as a shameful move by many."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In a shameful move three weeks ago, Egypt arrested an American University of Cairo democratization specialist, Saad Eddin Ibrahim, on some nonsensical charges.

The New York Times

Hanging over the whole enterprise is the I.O.C.'s regrettable refusal to allow any remembrance of the 40th anniversary of the massacre of Israeli athletes at the Munich Games, which Filip Bondy of The Daily News calls the most shameful move by the I.O.C.'s president, Jacques Rogge.

The New York Times - Sports

Professor Lauhona Ganguly of The New School in New York notes that that the takeover of media organizations is a blatant and shameful move to undermine democracy in a country, and that is what we are witnessing, unfortunately, today in Turkey.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It called the policy "part of the Bush administration's foolish and shameful moves to ostracize the D.P.R.K. politically and morally on the international arena and isolate and stifle it by terming it a 'rogue state.' " But for Japan, the largest economy in the region, North Korea's hostility only serves to strengthen the political standing at home of Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi.

The New York Times

The International Planned Parenthood Federation has also opposed the proposed increase in penalties, calling the move "shameful and irresponsible".

The Guardian

Calling the move shameful, Eduardo Gonçalves, chief executive of the League Against Cruel Sports, said: "Authorising this protected raptor to be killed purely to boost the profits of private shooting interests sets a very dangerous precedent.

The Guardian

In response, Borg made the rounds among legislators and held a press conference where he called Purcell's move "shameful, cynical and brazen".

Forbes

Several other groups, including the conservative Judicial Watch, called the move "shameful".

Huffington Post

Still, the Judiciary Committee's renunciation of the Defense of Marriage Act would be a real advance — one that reflects the public's growing rejection of this shameful discrimination and moves Congress a step closer to correcting it.

The New York Times

Let's also not forget Michelle Obama's shameful, offensive "Let's Move!" program, which blatantly institutionalized fat-shaming.

Vice

M&S's move is shameful.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "shameful move" to express strong disapproval of an action or decision that violates moral or ethical standards. Ensure the context clearly indicates the reason for the disapproval.

Common error

Avoid using "shameful move" excessively in situations where a more nuanced or specific criticism is appropriate. Overuse can dilute its impact and make your writing seem melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shameful move" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "shameful" modifies the noun "move". As Ludwig AI indicates, it is used to describe an action or decision deemed morally reprehensible.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "shameful move" is used to express strong disapproval of an action or decision considered morally wrong. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, predominantly found in news and media contexts. Alternatives like "disgraceful action" or "deplorable decision" can be used for variety or to adjust the intensity. While effective for conveying strong condemnation, it should be used judiciously to avoid overuse and maintain a balanced tone in writing. Major sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ this phrase, solidifying its place in common parlance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disgraceful action

This alternative focuses on the act itself being worthy of shame.

deplorable decision

This emphasizes the negative consequences and moral failing of the decision.

reprehensible act

Highlights the blameworthy nature of the action.

outrageous step

Focuses on the shocking and unacceptable nature of the action.

scandalous maneuver

Emphasizes the public disgrace associated with the action.

despicable measure

This term expresses strong disapproval and contempt for the action taken.

ignominious deed

Highlights the dishonorable and humiliating nature of the act.

discreditable behavior

Focuses on the damage to reputation caused by the action.

dishonorable conduct

This emphasizes the lack of integrity and ethical principles in the action.

unethical practice

Focuses on the violation of moral principles.

FAQs

What does "shameful move" mean?

A "shameful move" refers to an action or decision considered morally wrong, disgraceful, or deeply regrettable. It implies a violation of ethical standards or principles.

What can I say instead of "shameful move"?

You can use alternatives like "disgraceful action", "deplorable decision", or "reprehensible act" depending on the specific context and the degree of disapproval you wish to express.

When is it appropriate to use the term "shameful move"?

It's appropriate to use "shameful move" when you want to strongly condemn an action that you believe is unethical, immoral, or deeply wrong. Be mindful of your audience and the potential impact of such strong language.

Is "shameful move" too strong of a phrase to use in formal writing?

While "shameful move" can be used in formal writing, consider your audience and the overall tone of your piece. In some cases, a more neutral or objective term might be more appropriate. Alternatives include "unacceptable action" or "questionable decision".