without virtue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "without virtue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, action, or person lacking moral excellence or righteousness. Example: "The leader's decisions were often criticized as being without virtue, prioritizing personal gain over the welfare of the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

(Riches without virtue are ruinous).

The Economist

This is not to say that the wide screen is without virtue.

The New York Times - Arts

"But liberty without virtue devolves into license; and license, into chaos".

The New York Times

For Aesop, writing 600 years before the birth of Christ, it is a creature without virtue.

The Guardian

It is not an agenda without virtue, but does it tell the full story?

The Guardian

To the right wing's Second Amendment Sisters: "What is liberty without wisdom, and without virtue?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

For all his flaws, though, Werner was not without virtues.

The Economist

"It's not an argument without virtues, but it's also an incredible simplification.

MIT Technology Review

Hangzhou women lie in an uncomfortable situation such as a fear of the condemnation of being a woman without virtues.

Fashion and Textiles

They operate in a private world without virtues save profits and money.

Huffington Post

The fight to trust that athletics can still create heroes without rap sheets, virtue without chemicals, nobility with grace.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "without virtue" to clearly and concisely describe situations, actions, or characters that lack moral integrity or ethical behavior. This phrase is particularly effective in philosophical, political, and ethical discussions.

Common error

Avoid using "without virtue" when you actually mean a lack of skill or talent. "Virtue" refers to moral excellence, not competence. For example, instead of saying "a performance without virtue", consider "a performance without skill" if you're referring to technical ability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without virtue" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. Ludwig AI confirms that it is used to describe something or someone lacking moral qualities. It acts as a descriptive element, highlighting the absence of ethical behavior or moral excellence.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

21%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "without virtue" is grammatically correct and serves as an adjectival phrase indicating a lack of moral excellence. Ludwig AI confirms this, with examples showing its usage across various domains, particularly News & Media and Science. While not extremely frequent, it effectively conveys a critical or disapproving tone regarding ethical character or actions. Alternatives like "lacking morality" or "devoid of ethics" offer similar meanings, but "without virtue" carries a certain formality suitable for philosophical or political contexts. When using the term, ensure it accurately reflects a deficiency in moral integrity, not merely a lack of skill or talent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lacking morality

Replaces 'virtue' with a more direct synonym, 'morality'.

devoid of ethics

Emphasizes the absence of ethical principles, rather than general virtue.

bereft of goodness

Focuses on the absence of inherent goodness or moral qualities.

morally bankrupt

Implies a complete lack of moral integrity and values.

unprincipled

Highlights the absence of guiding principles or moral standards.

ethically compromised

Suggests a situation where ethical standards have been violated or weakened.

wanting in integrity

Emphasizes the lack of honesty and strong moral principles.

lacking in righteousness

Focuses on the absence of moral uprightness and adherence to divine or moral law.

deficient in moral fiber

Highlights the weakness or absence of moral strength and character.

immoral

A direct antonym suggesting active violation of moral principles, rather than just absence.

FAQs

How can I use "without virtue" in a sentence?

You can use "without virtue" to describe something or someone that lacks moral excellence or righteousness. For example: "A king "without virtue" is really a beggar."

What phrases are similar to "without virtue"?

Similar phrases include "lacking morality", "devoid of ethics", or "morally bankrupt". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "lacking virtue" or "without virtue"?

Both "lacking virtue" and "without virtue" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often comes down to stylistic preference, though "without virtue" may sound slightly more formal or literary.

What is the difference between "without virtue" and "immoral"?

"Without virtue" implies a lack of moral goodness or principles, whereas "immoral" suggests actively engaging in behavior that violates moral standards. Someone "without virtue" may simply be amoral, while someone "immoral" is acting against accepted morals.