undignified

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "undignified" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks dignity or is considered shameful or inappropriate. Example: "His behavior at the formal event was undignified and drew disapproving looks from the guests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Staggeringly, it seems that few in Carlton's senior management team heeded any lessons from Malthouse's ugly departure at Collingwood, apparently bumbling their way along under the misguided assumption that the league's most abrasive and opinionated media performer would just silently endure this undignified coda to his record-breaking career.

The Guardian - Sport

In a rather undignified but amusing manner dignity had finally been restored.

The Guardian - Sport

His was an undignified send-off, the defender failing to cut off the cross that led to the goal and slashing wildly like a batsman playing down the wrong line.

The Guardian - Sport

The more successful the PM the more likely an undignified exit.

The Guardian

Brat behaviour, undignified squabbles over money, followed by rapid decline.

The Guardian - Film

That we're just surrendering power?" spluttered one backbencher.But with a bare two-seat majority in parliament, the conservatives have been clinging to power in undignified fashion.

The Economist

Several board members had grumbled that the humiliation of Mr Löscher was undignified but in the end their vote was unanimous.Mr Kaeser insisted that the company is "certainly not in crisis, nor is it in need of major restructuring".

The Economist

AS SO many countries have found in recent years, an effort to let a currency float gracefully downwards can easily turn into an undignified nosedive.

The Economist

This is what Mr Schröder calls "Fördern und Fordern", a play on an umlaut that translates roughly as "assist and challenge".Politicians like Dietmar Bartsch of the Left, a party of former Communists from East Germany and radicals from the west, many of whom defected from the SPD after Agenda 2010, find the "challenging" undignified.

The Economist

West Brom, 11 places above them in the league, declined the offer, prompting the undignified spectacle of Mr Odemwingie hotfooting it down from the Black Country to try and conduct personal negotiations.

The Economist

The economy should grow a little in 2014 and by more than 2% in 2015.In this section On being propped up Indignant, undignified Coming in Presidency through ambiguity Up, but not out Tor! Tor! Tor! Hobbling behind America Reprints Related topics International Monetary Fund (IMF) European Union GreeceThis summer should see a record 17m tourists crowding Greek beaches.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation as "undignified", consider the specific aspect that lacks dignity: is it the behavior, the circumstances, or the outcome? This will help you choose the most accurate and impactful word.

Common error

While "undignified" is widely applicable, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing where more precise terms like "inappropriate", "unprofessional", or "disrespectful" might be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "undignified" primarily functions to describe something that lacks dignity or is considered inappropriate and shameful. It often modifies nouns representing actions, events, or behaviors, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

22%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "undignified" is a versatile adjective used to describe something lacking dignity or appearing shameful. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its frequent use in contexts such as News & Media and Encyclopedias. While broadly applicable, choosing more precise synonyms like "inappropriate" or "disrespectful" may be beneficial in formal writing. When using "undignified", consider the specific aspect that lacks dignity for the most impactful choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lacking dignity

Focuses on the absence of inherent worthiness or honor.

demeaning

Emphasizes the act of lowering someone's status or reputation.

humiliating

Highlights the feeling of shame and loss of pride.

shameful

Indicates a sense of moral wrongness and disgrace.

disgraceful

Stresses the loss of respect and honor.

unseemly

Highlights the inappropriateness of behavior or appearance.

vulgar

Implies a lack of refinement and good taste.

indecorous

Focuses on the violation of accepted standards of behavior.

improper

Indicates a deviation from what is considered correct or suitable.

unbecoming

Suggests that something is not suitable or appropriate for a particular person or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "undignified" in a sentence?

You can use "undignified" to describe actions, situations, or even objects that lack dignity or appear shameful. For example, "The politician's behavior was "undignified" and unbecoming of his position."

What are some alternatives to the word "undignified"?

Alternatives to "undignified" include "demeaning", "humiliating", "shameful", or "disgraceful". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "lacking dignity" or "undignified"?

"Undignified" is often more concise and direct. "Lacking dignity" is also correct but can sometimes sound more formal. The choice depends on the overall tone and style of your writing.

When is it inappropriate to use the word "undignified"?

While generally safe to use, "undignified" might be too mild in situations involving severe moral failings or criminal behavior. In such cases, stronger words like "atrocious" or "reprehensible" may be more appropriate.