totally unjustified

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "totally unjustified" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, action, or decision that lacks justification or reason, often conveying strong disapproval. Example: "The criticism he received was totally unjustified, as he had worked hard on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

It was totally unjustified.

The Guardian - Sport

Dunga said the second yellow card was "totally unjustified".

The New York Times - Sports

What he did in saying that was totally unjustified.

The Guardian - Sport

"It's a totally unjustified intervention by government," he said.

The Guardian

To me, this is ridiculous," adding, "It's totally unjustified".

The New York Times

It was totally unjustified and it made me very unhappy.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Nor is it wholly unjustified.

The Economist

"[The verdict] is entirely unjustified.

The Guardian

The criticism is entirely unjustified.

The New York Times - Books

"The subsidy is completely unjustified.

The Guardian - Sport

"Incitement to murder is completely unjustified.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "totally unjustified", ensure the context clearly indicates the reasons or lack thereof that make the action or decision unjustified. Provide specific examples or explanations to strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "totally unjustified" as a mere expression of disapproval. Always provide context and reasons to support your claim. Saying something is "totally unjustified" without explaining why weakens your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "totally unjustified" functions primarily as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, describing it as lacking any valid justification or basis. According to Ludwig, it's a phrase used to express strong disapproval.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "totally unjustified" is a common and grammatically sound way to express strong disapproval of something lacking a valid reason. Ludwig confirms its correctness and provides ample examples from news, business, and scientific sources. When using this phrase, clarity and specific supporting reasons are crucial to avoid ambiguity and strengthen your argument. Be mindful of overuse without adequate context. Alternatives like "completely unwarranted" or "wholly indefensible" offer similar intensity with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely unwarranted

Replaces "unjustified" with "unwarranted" and "totally" with "completely", emphasizing the lack of necessity or justification.

thoroughly unwarranted

Similar to "completely unwarranted", this alternative reinforces the idea that something is not justified or deserved.

utterly without merit

Substitutes "totally unjustified" with "utterly without merit", highlighting the lack of value or worth.

entirely groundless

Replaces "totally unjustified" with "entirely groundless", focusing on the lack of factual basis.

completely unreasonable

This phrase highlights the lack of reason and rationality.

wholly indefensible

Substitutes "totally unjustified" with "wholly indefensible", stressing the inability to defend or justify the action or decision.

blatantly unjust

Substitutes with the words "blatantly unjust" intensifying the unfairness or inequity.

absolutely uncalled for

Replaces "totally unjustified" with "absolutely uncalled for", emphasizing that the action was unnecessary and inappropriate.

patently unfair

Replaces "totally unjustified" with "patently unfair", underscoring the obvious injustice of the situation.

absolutely illegitimate

Changes the focus to the lack of legitimacy rather than justification.

FAQs

What does "totally unjustified" mean?

The phrase "totally unjustified" means completely lacking a valid reason, basis, or excuse. It indicates that something is unfair, unwarranted, and cannot be defended or explained by any legitimate reason.

How can I use "totally unjustified" in a sentence?

You can use "totally unjustified" to describe an action, decision, or belief that is without merit or reason. For example: "The fine imposed on the company was "totally unjustified", given their limited involvement."

What can I say instead of "totally unjustified"?

You can use alternatives like "completely unwarranted", "entirely groundless", or "wholly indefensible" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "totally unjustified" or "completely unjustified"?

Both "totally unjustified" and "completely unjustified" are acceptable and convey similar meanings. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific nuance you want to express. The key is ensuring the context clearly supports the claim that something lacks justification.