utterly detestable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utterly detestable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express strong disapproval or disgust towards something or someone. Example: "The actions of the corrupt politician were utterly detestable to the citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Curiously, every Marmite lover I spoke to yesterday found the notion of a squeezy bottle utterly detestable.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

'I find this shocking, detestable and utterly inhuman,' says Lichy. 'I'm a governor at a school for deaf children.

The Guardian

Goethe considered Beethoven to be "an utterly untamed personality, who is not altogether in the wrong in holding the world to be detestable, but surely does not make it any the more enjoyable either for himself or for others by his attitude".

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was detestable".

The Guardian - Books

It is detestable".

Independent

Utterly ridiculous.

Independent

A: Utterly.

The New Yorker

But the World Series version is detestable.

The New York Times - Sports

Utterly glorious.

The Guardian - Travel

Utterly absurd.

The New York Times

Mr Kershaw admits here that he finds Hitler "detestable".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utterly detestable" to express a very strong and almost visceral dislike or disapproval, typically in situations where something is morally or aesthetically offensive.

Common error

Avoid using "utterly detestable" in everyday conversation or informal writing. Its strong and somewhat dramatic tone can sound exaggerated or insincere if applied to trivial matters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utterly detestable" functions as an intensifying adjective phrase. The adverb "utterly" modifies and strengthens the adjective "detestable", highlighting the extreme degree of something being disliked or abhorred. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its ability to express strong disapproval.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "utterly detestable" is a grammatically sound and powerful way to express extreme dislike or moral condemnation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it combines the adverb "utterly" to intensify the adjective "detestable", creating a strong negative evaluation. While its usage is relatively rare, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts, it serves to convey profound disgust or outrage. When writing, it is important to use this phrase judiciously, reserving it for situations that genuinely warrant such strong disapproval. Overusing it can diminish its impact and make your language sound exaggerated. Consider the context and audience to ensure that the phrase appropriately conveys your intended meaning. Alternatives like "completely abhorrent" or "totally loathsome" may be more fitting in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely abhorrent

Replaces "utterly detestable" with a phrase emphasizing moral repugnance.

totally loathsome

Uses "loathsome" to describe something that inspires intense dislike and disgust.

absolutely repulsive

Focuses on the repulsive nature of something, evoking a strong sense of aversion.

thoroughly despicable

Emphasizes the contemptible and base nature of something.

unreservedly hateful

Highlights the intense feeling of hatred associated with something.

thoroughly objectionable

Indicates that something is extremely unpleasant or offensive.

wholly repugnant

Similar to "absolutely repulsive", highlighting the disgust it provokes.

entirely offensive

Focuses on the offensive nature of the subject.

thoroughly disgusting

Emphasizes the revolting and sickening nature of something.

completely appalling

Indicates that something is shocking and horrifying.

FAQs

How can I use "utterly detestable" in a sentence?

You can use "utterly detestable" to describe something you find extremely unpleasant or morally wrong. For example, "The politician's actions were "utterly detestable" to the majority of voters".

What are some alternatives to "utterly detestable"?

Alternatives include "completely abhorrent", "totally loathsome", or "absolutely repulsive". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "utterly detestable" too strong for formal writing?

While "utterly detestable" can be used in formal writing, consider your audience and the overall tone. In some cases, a less emotive phrase might be more appropriate to maintain objectivity. Evaluate whether alternatives like "thoroughly objectionable" would be more fitting.

What kind of situations is "utterly detestable" best suited for?

"Utterly detestable" is best used when you want to express strong moral disapproval or intense disgust, such as when describing actions that are unethical, cruel, or deeply offensive. Save its use for situations requiring significant condemnation.