Dishonorable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dishonorable

[dɪsˈɒn.ər.ə.bəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Lacking honor or integrity; not worthy of respect or trust.

Synonyms

disgraceful, shameful, unethical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dishonorable

Used to describe actions or behaviors that lack honor, integrity, or respect. Often used in formal settings or discussions about moral conduct.

  • Cheating in the tournament was considered a dishonorable act.
  • He resigned from his position due to his dishonorable behavior.
shameful

Used to describe actions or behaviors that cause a feeling of guilt, regret, or embarrassment. Frequently used in personal contexts or when expressing strong emotional reactions.

  • His betrayal was a shameful act that deeply hurt his friends.
  • It is shameful to spread lies and rumors about someone.
disgraceful

Often used to describe actions or behaviors that bring public shame or humiliation, indicating strong disapproval. Suitable for situations where the action has caused public outrage or scandal.

  • The politician's behavior was disgraceful and caused a major scandal.
  • It is disgraceful to treat employees with such disrespect.
unethical

Used to describe actions or behaviors that go against professional or societal norms and moral principles. Commonly used in professional, business, and academic contexts.

  • The company's decision to hide safety defects in their products was highly unethical.
  • Doctors must avoid unethical practices to maintain trust.

Examples of usage

  • He was accused of dishonorable conduct during the investigation.
  • The company's dishonorable practices led to its downfall.
Context #2 | Adjective

person

Not deserving honor or respect; ignoble.

Synonyms

deceptive, unprincipled, unscrupulous.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dishonorable

When referring to actions or behavior that violates moral or ethical standards, often associated with betrayal or lack of integrity. It suggests a serious breach of trust or expectations.

  • He was discharged from the military for his dishonorable conduct.
  • Cheating in the tournament was considered a dishonorable act.
unprincipled

Refers to someone who behaves in ways that are morally or ethically wrong, showing a lack of principles or moral integrity. It can be used to describe a general character trait.

  • The unprincipled politician accepted bribes without hesitation.
  • His unprincipled behavior cost him the trust of his colleagues.
unscrupulous

Describes individuals or entities that act without any moral principles, often in a ruthless or unethical manner to achieve their goals. It suggests a complete disregard for what is right or fair.

  • The unscrupulous businessman exploited his workers for profit.
  • She made an unscrupulous decision to falsify the documents.
deceptive

Used when describing actions, practices, or appearances meant to mislead or give a false impression. Often involves trickery or falsification.

  • The salesperson's deceptive tactics made the deal seem better than it was.
  • Her sweet smile was deceptive; she had other intentions.

Examples of usage

  • He was considered a dishonorable individual due to his deceitful actions.
  • The dishonorable politician lost the trust of the public.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • During the feudal era, being called 'dishonorable' could lead to loss of title or respect in society.
  • In wartime histories, actions deemed dishonorable could result in condemnation and punishment, impacting soldiers' legacies.
  • The notion of honor and dishonor has influenced many cultures, leading to traditions like dueling or public shaming.

Pop Culture

  • Dishonorable characters are common in movies; they often betray trust, which drives plots and conflicts.
  • Many popular video games feature quests where players must address dishonorable actions, reflecting moral choices.
  • In literature, characters labeled as dishonorable often undergo redemption arcs, emphasizing the potential for change.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people often prioritize honor and reputation, as these can affect trust and social relationships.
  • The perception of being dishonorable leads to social ostracization, impacting mental health and group dynamics.
  • Studies reveal that individuals may act dishonorably under pressure, indicating a link between stress and moral decisions.

Legal Implications

  • In legal terms, dishonorable actions can lead to damages or punitive measures in civil cases.
  • Certain professions have codes of conduct that protect their reputation; being dishonorable can lead to loss of licensing.
  • Historically, some societies had legal repercussions for acts deemed dishonorable, particularly in cases of betrayal or dereliction of duty.

Origin of 'dishonorable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 'dis-' meaning 'not' and 'honorable', which relates to being respected or having good character.
  • It has been used in English since the late 14th century, originally describing actions not worthy of honor.
  • Historically, the concept of honor was closely tied to chivalry, especially in medieval Europe.

The word 'dishonorable' originated from the combination of 'dis-' meaning 'not' and 'honorable' meaning 'worthy of honor'. It has been used in the English language to describe actions or individuals that lack integrity or respectability. The concept of honor has been valued in various cultures throughout history, and being labeled as dishonorable carries negative connotations regarding one's character or behavior.


See also: dishonor, dishonorably, dishonored, honorable, honorably, honored, honorees, honoring, honors, unhonored.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,737, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.