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Deplorable: meaning, definitions and examples

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deplorable

 

[dɪˈplɔːrəb(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

Deserving strong condemnation; completely unacceptable.

Synonyms

abhorrent, disgraceful, reprehensible, shameful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
deplorable

This word is used to describe a situation or condition that is very bad and deserves strong condemnation.

  • The living conditions in the shelter were deplorable
disgraceful

This term is appropriate for situations that bring shame or are socially unacceptable.

  • Her behavior at the party last night was disgraceful
shameful

Use this word to describe actions or events that cause one to feel a deep sense of shame.

  • It was shameful how they treated the new employee
reprehensible

It fits well in formal contexts to indicate actions or behaviors that are morally wrong and deserving of severe criticism.

  • The politician's actions were entirely reprehensible
abhorrent

It is best used when discussing something that causes a strong feeling of disgust or hatred.

  • The crime he committed was truly abhorrent

Examples of usage

  • His behavior was deplorable and unacceptable.
  • The conditions in the prison were deplorable.
Context #2 | Adjective

quality

Of very poor quality or condition.

Synonyms

appalling, atrocious, dismal, pitiful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
deplorable

Used to describe something extremely bad or unacceptable, often in a moral or social realm.

  • The living conditions in the refugee camp are deplorable.
  • His behavior during the meeting was simply deplorable.
dismal

Refers to something depressing or bleak, often linked to situations that cause a feeling of sadness.

  • The weather has been dismal all week.
  • His performance on the test was dismal.
atrocious

Describes something extremely bad or of poor quality, often with a sense of outrage.

  • The journalist wrote about the atrocious human rights violations.
  • The service at that restaurant was simply atrocious.
appalling

Employed to express shock or horror at something, usually implying a very strong negative reaction.

  • The state of the abandoned building is appalling.
  • Her disregard for the rules was appalling.
pitiful

Used to express a feeling of sympathy or contempt for something very poor or inadequate. Often carries a slightly condescending tone.

  • The stray dog looked so pitiful in the rain.
  • The effort put into the project was pitiful.

Examples of usage

  • The deplorable state of the building made it unsafe.
  • The deplorable living conditions in the slums.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'deplorabilis,' meaning 'to weep for' or 'to lament,' reflecting its negative connotation.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally related to expressing grief or sorrow.
  • Over time, its use expanded to describe actions or conditions that provoke disapproval or pity.

Cultural Context

  • In literature, characters often face deplorable situations that define their development, such as in classic tragedies.
  • The term is frequently used in political discourse to criticize actions or policies that are considered morally objectionable.
  • Art often depicts deplorable conditions, prompting viewers to reflect on social injustices.

Psychology

  • Reactions to deplorable situations can evoke strong emotions, including empathy or outrage, influencing social behavior.
  • Studying responses to deplorable conditions helps psychologists understand human compassion and ethical decision-making.
  • Experiencing or witnessing deplorable acts can lead to a phenomenon known as 'moral outrage,' impacting community dynamics.

Historical Examples

  • Throughout history, various social movements have labeled practices as deplorable, sparking changes like abolition and civil rights advancements.
  • Historical figures have used the term to describe governance failures, calling for reforms to address widespread suffering.
  • Wars often leave regions in deplorable conditions, prompting humanitarian responses and the need for aid.

Modern Usage

  • In recent years, the term has gained prominence in discussions of social media ethics, referring to harmful content spread online.
  • People often describe deplorable environmental practices as unsustainable, calling for action to protect the planet.
  • The word is commonly encountered in journalism, particularly in reports about crime, poverty, and inequality, highlighting urgent social issues.

Translations

Translations of the word "deplorable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 deplorável

🇮🇳 निंदनीय

🇩🇪 erbärmlich

🇮🇩 mengenaskan

🇺🇦 жалюгідний

🇵🇱 żałosny

🇯🇵 嘆かわしい

🇫🇷 déplorable

🇪🇸 deplorable

🇹🇷 içler acısı

🇰🇷 개탄스러운

🇸🇦 مؤسف

🇨🇿 žalostný

🇸🇰 poľutovaniahodný

🇨🇳 可悲的

🇸🇮 obžalovanja vreden

🇮🇸 hörmulegur

🇰🇿 қайғылы

🇬🇪 სამწუხარო

🇦🇿 acınacaqlı

🇲🇽 deplorable

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,902, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.