utterly shameful

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utterly shameful" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express strong disapproval or condemnation of an action, behavior, or situation that is considered disgraceful or unacceptable. Example: "The way the company handled the layoffs was utterly shameful and showed a lack of respect for its employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Utterly shameful".

The Guardian

He's invented a supposed 'rape' for cheap PR - utterly shameful".

Independent

He said it was "utterly shameful that David Cameron had not yet publicly condemned the kingdom's actions.

Independent

"It is shameful, utterly shameful, that our prime minister is just turning his back," she said.

The Guardian

David Cameron's silence in the wake of Saudi Arabia's execution of 47 prisoners, including a leading Shia cleric, that has sparked global outrage has been branded "utterly shameful".

Independent

The second big story is the phone-hacking scandal, over which this paper's dogged tenacity was as heroic as News International's foot-dragging was utterly shameful.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Let's not even bother with the non-existent weapons of mass destruction, the attorney general's remarkable about-turn regarding the legality of invasion; let's overlook the continual linking of al-Qaida and the decision to go to war (utterly disingenuous and shameful, because Saddam would have nothing to do with Bin Laden and, prior to our interference, al-Qaida had no influence in Iraq).

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's shameful and utterly unacceptable that prison staff should have to face this level of threat in the workplace.

The Guardian

For a beautifully written, acid comedy, the best novel ever to come out of the Pacific Northwest, that is a shameful and utterly undeserved fate.

The Guardian - Books

"It is shameful and utterly irresponsible for UNESCO to award this prize, given the litany of serious legal and ethical problems surrounding it," Tutu Alicante, director of the human rights group EG Justice, said in a statement released today.

Science Magazine

The Srebrenica and Zepa Mothers Association condemned the report as "false, shameful and utterly amoral".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "utterly shameful", ensure the context clearly establishes what specific action or situation is being condemned. This adds clarity and impact to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "utterly shameful" in contexts that are only mildly disappointing or inconvenient. Reserve this phrase for situations that genuinely warrant strong condemnation to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utterly shameful" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, expressing a strong negative judgment or condemnation. As Ludwig AI points out, it is used to express disapproval of an action, behavior, or situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

1%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "utterly shameful" is a potent expression used to convey strong disapproval or condemnation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying nouns to express outrage or moral judgment, and is predominantly found in news and media sources. While it can be used in both formal and informal settings, it is most effective when reserved for situations genuinely deserving of strong condemnation. Consider alternatives like "completely disgraceful" or "totally unacceptable" to achieve similar impacts. Overusing the phrase in mild situations diminishes its power. Ultimately, "utterly shameful" serves as a robust tool for expressing profound disapproval.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely disgraceful

Emphasizes the disgraceful nature of something, intensifying the negative aspect.

totally unacceptable

Focuses on the unacceptability of the action or situation, highlighting its lack of justification.

absolutely appalling

Stresses the shocking and offensive nature of something.

utterly reprehensible

Highlights the moral condemnation of the action or behavior.

thoroughly deplorable

Indicates a deep sense of disapproval and regret.

patently outrageous

Emphasizes how visibly offensive and unacceptable the behavior is.

plainly disgraceful

Highlights the straightforward and obvious nature of the disgrace.

absolutely scandalous

Focuses on the potential for public outrage and damage to reputation.

downright ignominious

Conveys a sense of deep shame and loss of honor.

thoroughly contemptible

Indicates that something deserves strong disdain and disrespect.

FAQs

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

Use "utterly shameful" to express strong disapproval of something. For example, "The company's treatment of its employees was "utterly shameful"."

What are some alternatives to "utterly shameful"?

You can use phrases like "completely disgraceful", "totally unacceptable", or "absolutely appalling" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "utterly shameful"?

It's appropriate when you want to express a very strong sense of disapproval, outrage, or moral condemnation about something.

Is "utterly shameful" formal or informal?

"Utterly shameful" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is generally more impactful in formal or serious discussions due to its strong connotation.