utterly immoral

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utterly immoral" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions, behaviors, or decisions that are completely lacking in moral principles or ethics. Example: "The decision to exploit vulnerable populations for profit is utterly immoral."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Sir Anthony's policy, however sincerely intended, has been hideously miscalculated and utterly immoral.

The Guardian

Financial advisers who specialise in devising complex tax-break schemes for investors have been accused of being part of an "utterly immoral" industry by a committee of MPs.

The Guardian - Business

His victim, meanwhile, "comes from our lowest breed of poor whites.... Her mother is utterly immoral and without principle; and this child has been accustomed from her very babyhood to behold scenes of the grossest immorality.

The New Yorker

In one vicious war of words a few years ago - sparked during a debate on Radio 3, of all places - the British psychologist Oliver James called Pinker's views "wicked" and "utterly immoral", "misleading" and "dangerous".

The Guardian - Books

Tax avoidance schemes, such as the one used by comedian Jimmy Carr, are "completely and utterly immoral", Margaret Hodge, chair of the Public Accounts Committee PACC), has said.

BBC

It's your utterly immoral attitude that encourages paedophilia and child rape.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The public would consider such schemes "completely and utterly and totally immoral" and those involved in devising and marketing them were "running rings around" tax officials, she said.

The Guardian - Business

She added that the public would consider such schemes as "completely and utterly and totally immoral" and that those involved in devising and marketing them were "running rings round" HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

BBC

This sense of being victimized resulted from an intentional infliction of harm in the past, universally viewed as utterly unjust and immoral.

Huffington Post

As one of my sassier friends says, "you ain't never gonna stop the business of sex," which is surely true, but when it comes to the illegal, immoral, and utterly dishonorable aspects of that business, let's raise the bar.

Huffington Post

But I was utterly convinced that what I believed was Truth, and anyone who disagreed was either ignorant of the Scriptures, immoral, illiterate, or heretical.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utterly immoral" to express strong disapproval of actions or decisions that violate fundamental moral principles. Ensure the context clearly establishes the moral standard being violated.

Common error

Avoid using "utterly immoral" to describe minor offenses or disagreements. This phrase is best reserved for situations involving significant ethical breaches or profound injustices, as overuse can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utterly immoral" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, typically describing an action, policy, or behavior. It amplifies the adjective "immoral", indicating a complete lack of moral principles. As Ludwig AI indicates, this term correctly conveys strong disapproval.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "utterly immoral" is a powerful expression used to convey strong disapproval of actions or decisions that violate fundamental moral principles. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in formal writing. Its frequency is considered uncommon, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts. When using this phrase, it's crucial to reserve it for situations involving significant ethical breaches to maintain its impact and avoid diluting its meaning. Alternatives like "completely unethical" or "totally reprehensible" can offer similar nuances depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely unethical

Focuses on the violation of ethical principles rather than general morality.

totally reprehensible

Emphasizes the deserving of strong condemnation.

wholly unconscionable

Highlights the lack of conscience or moral awareness.

absolutely wrong

A more general expression indicating a strong moral objection.

thoroughly corrupt

Focuses on the aspect of corruption and moral decay.

morally bankrupt

Implies a complete absence of moral values or principles.

patently immoral

Highlights that the immorality is obvious and undeniable.

utterly depraved

Suggests a state of extreme moral corruption and wickedness.

thoroughly wicked

Focuses on the malevolent and harmful nature of the action or behavior.

downright sinful

Connects the immorality to religious or spiritual transgression.

FAQs

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

You can use "utterly immoral" to describe actions or behaviors that are completely lacking in moral principles. For example, "The exploitation of child labor is an "utterly immoral" practice."

What are some alternatives to "utterly immoral"?

Alternatives include "completely unethical", "totally reprehensible", or "wholly unconscionable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "utterly immoral" and "immoral"?

"Utterly immoral" intensifies the meaning of "immoral", indicating a complete and extreme lack of morality. While "immoral" simply means not moral, "utterly immoral" suggests a more profound and egregious violation of moral principles.

Is it appropriate to use "utterly immoral" in formal writing?

Yes, "utterly immoral" can be used in formal writing when describing actions or decisions that represent a significant breach of ethics or moral standards. However, ensure the context warrants such a strong term.