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Depravity: meaning, definitions and examples

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depravity

 

[dɪˈprævɪti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

extreme moral corruption

Depravity refers to the state of being morally corrupt or wicked. It is the quality of being degenerate, immoral, or evil.

Synonyms

corruption, degeneracy, evil, immorality, wickedness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
depravity

Depravity is often used to describe extreme moral corruption or wicked behavior, especially of a deeply sinister nature.

  • The novel explores the depths of human depravity
  • His depravity knew no bounds
corruption

Corruption typically refers to dishonest or unethical behavior by someone in a position of power, often involving bribery.

  • The politician was accused of corruption
  • Corruption erodes public trust in the government
immorality

Immorality refers to actions or behavior that are considered wrong or unethical according to societal standards.

  • The scandal highlighted his immorality
  • Immorality often breeds distrust in a community
wickedness

Wickedness denotes deliberate and harmful wrongdoing, often with malicious intent and a lack of remorse.

  • Her acts of wickedness shocked everyone
  • The wickedness of the crime was appalling
degeneracy

Degeneracy is used to describe a descent into a less civilized or moral state, often implying a loss of standards or values.

  • The film depicted a society in a state of moral degeneracy
  • He lamented the degeneracy of modern culture
evil

Evil represents profound immorality and malevolence, often associated with actions that cause harm or suffering.

  • The character represents pure evil
  • The evil of the oppressive regime was evident to all

Examples of usage

  • His depravity knew no bounds as he committed heinous crimes without remorse.
  • The depravity of the dictator's actions shocked the world.
  • She was disgusted by the depravity she witnessed in the city's underworld.
  • The novel explores the depths of human depravity and the consequences of unchecked power.
  • The depravity of the character's actions is central to the plot of the story.
Context #2 | Noun

a morally corrupt act or behavior

Depravity can also refer to a specific morally corrupt act or behavior. It is an immoral or corrupt action that goes against accepted standards or principles.

Synonyms

corrupt behavior, degenerate behavior, evil action, immoral act, wicked deed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
depravity

Used to describe a state of moral corruption or extreme wickedness, often in a broad or general sense.

  • The novel explores the depths of human depravity in a dystopian world
corrupt behavior

Refers to actions that involve the abuse of power for personal gain, often in politics or business.

  • The investigation unveiled several officials involved in corrupt behavior, including bribery and embezzlement
immoral act

Describes a specific behavior or deed that goes against accepted moral principles.

  • Cheating on the exam was an immoral act that undermined the integrity of the academic system
wicked deed

Refers to a specific action that is intentionally harmful or malicious, often used in storytelling and literature.

  • In fairy tales, the wicked deed of the witch often involves casting a spell on the innocent protagonist
evil action

Specifically refers to a single act that is profoundly immoral or malevolent.

  • The villain's evil action caused suffering to countless innocent people
degenerate behavior

Describes actions that are considered morally degraded or lacking in proper behavior, typically suggesting a decline from a previous state of respectability.

  • The once-respected scientist was later known for his degenerate behavior, which included unethical experiments

Examples of usage

  • The depravity of the embezzlement scheme shocked the company's shareholders.
  • He was arrested for his depravity in luring minors online for illicit activities.
  • The depravity of the murder scene indicated a brutal and senseless crime.
  • The depravity of the politician's actions led to public outrage and calls for resignation.
  • Her depravity in spreading false rumors about her colleagues tarnished her reputation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'depravare,' meaning to distort or corrupt.
  • In the late Middle Ages, it was used to describe moral corruption in people.
  • As language evolved, the term became more widely associated with sinfulness and wrongdoing.

Psychology

  • Studies show that people can exhibit depravity due to social influences, such as peer pressure or group dynamics.
  • Moral depravity can be linked to certain personality disorders, which influence behavior and decision-making.
  • Research indicates that prolonged exposure to violent or immoral environments can desensitize individuals, leading to harmful actions.

Literature

  • Depravity is often a central theme in Gothic literature, showcasing the dark side of human nature.
  • Charles Dickens in 'A Tale of Two Cities' presents characters whose actions reflect moral corruption and social decay.
  • Many classic works of literature explore the conflict between depravity and redemption, emphasizing human choices.

History

  • Throughout history, societies have perceived certain behaviors as depraved, leading to legal and religious consequences.
  • The Salem witch trials exemplify how accusations of depravity led to hysteria and tragic outcomes.
  • In ancient Rome, various emperors were accused of depravity, influencing societal views on leadership and morality.

Pop Culture

  • Films and books often depict characters who spiral into depravity, serving as cautionary tales about moral choices.
  • The term has appeared in popular music, often used to criticize societal issues or behaviors.
  • Video games increasingly explore themes of depravity, often giving players choices that reflect moral dilemmas.

Translations

Translations of the word "depravity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 depravação

🇮🇳 दुराचार

🇩🇪 Verderbtheit

🇮🇩 kebejatan

🇺🇦 розбещеність

🇵🇱 deprawacja

🇯🇵 堕落

🇫🇷 dépravation

🇪🇸 depravación

🇹🇷 yozlaşma

🇰🇷 타락

🇸🇦 فساد

🇨🇿 zvrhlost

🇸🇰 zvrhlosť

🇨🇳 堕落

🇸🇮 pokvarjenost

🇮🇸 spilling

🇰🇿 азғындық

🇬🇪 გარყვნილება

🇦🇿 pozğunluq

🇲🇽 depravación

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,205, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.