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Immorality: meaning, definitions and examples

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immorality

 

[ɪˌmɔːˈræləti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

lack of moral principles

Immorality refers to the quality or state of being immoral, which means not conforming to accepted standards of morality. It is the absence of moral principles or the violation of ethical standards.

Synonyms

corruption, evil, wickedness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
immorality

Used to describe actions or behaviors that are considered to be wrong or unethical by societal standards, often in a general sense.

  • The film examines the immorality of cheating and lying
  • The politician was criticized for his immorality in handling public funds
wickedness

Often used to describe behavior or acts that are morally wrong in a way that suggests a certain delight in doing harm or causing trouble.

  • The witch was known for her wickedness
  • His laughter was filled with wickedness as he recounted his misdeeds
evil

Describes actions, people, or forces that are deeply harmful, malevolent, or morally wrong, often in a very profound or absolute sense.

  • The villain in the story was pure evil
  • They believed the dictator's actions to be the embodiment of evil
corruption

Typically refers to dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power, often involving bribery or the misappropriation of resources.

  • The local government faced charges of corruption
  • The company was investigated for corruption after several large sums of money went missing

Examples of usage

  • His actions were condemned for their immorality.
  • She was shocked by the immorality displayed in the movie.
Context #2 | Noun

sexual misconduct

Immorality can also refer to sexual misconduct or behavior that goes against societal norms or moral values. It often involves actions considered unethical or sinful.

Synonyms

depravity, licentiousness, promiscuity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
immorality

This term is often used in general discussions about actions or behaviors that go against moral principles. It can apply to a wide range of unethical acts.

  • His involvement in corruption scandals was a clear sign of his immorality.
  • The novel explores themes of immorality and redemption.
licentiousness

This term generally refers to a disregard for accepted rules or standards, particularly in sexual matters. It suggests a lack of moral restraint.

  • The character's licentiousness was evident in his scandalous affairs.
  • Licentiousness was rampant in the decadent society depicted in the film.
depravity

This word is used to describe a state of moral corruption that is often extreme and shocking. It implies a deep level of moral perversion.

  • The depravity of the crimes left the community in horror.
  • Historical accounts of the dictator's regime reveal the depth of human depravity.
promiscuity

This word is often used specifically to describe having casual and multiple sexual relationships. It has a negative connotation, implying lack of control or moral standards.

  • The town gossip spread rumors about her alleged promiscuity.
  • The book examines the consequences of promiscuity in modern society.

Examples of usage

  • The novel explores themes of love, betrayal, and immorality.
  • The scandal exposed the immorality of those in power.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In many ethical discussions, immorality raises questions about personal responsibility and societal norms.
  • Philosophers like Immanuel Kant and John Stuart Mill debated what defines right and wrong, influencing views on immorality.
  • The study of ethics, or moral philosophy, explores the reasons behind immoral actions and how they affect others.

Religion

  • Many religions have teachings detailing what is considered immoral behavior, aiming to guide followers on the right path.
  • In Christianity, ideas of sin often overlap with immorality, highlighting a struggle between moral laws and personal choices.
  • Eastern philosophies may define immorality in the context of actions that accumulate bad karma or negative consequences.

History

  • Historical events, such as wars and genocides, are often analyzed for their moral implications, with many viewed as acts of immorality.
  • Philosophers and writers like Plato and Nietzsche have critiqued societies for various immoral practices throughout history.
  • The concept of immorality has evolved over time, shaped by cultural changes and shifts in societal values.

Law

  • Legal systems often incorporate moral values, making certain immoral acts legally punishable, like theft or fraud.
  • The term 'immoral' may appear in court cases, particularly in discussions about the intent behind an action.
  • Some laws are considered outdated or 'immoral' by modern standards, leading to discussions about reform.

Pop Culture

  • Films and books often explore themes of immorality, depicting characters who face moral dilemmas or resist societal norms.
  • Characters viewed as 'bad' or 'immoral' can be compelling in narratives, leading audiences to question their own moral judgments.
  • Reality shows often highlight behaviors that some viewers may deem as immoral, prompting discussions about social ethics.

Translations

Translations of the word "immorality" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imoralidade

🇮🇳 अनैतिकता

🇩🇪 Unmoral

🇮🇩 ketidakmoralitas

🇺🇦 аморальність

🇵🇱 niemoralność

🇯🇵 不道徳

🇫🇷 immoralité

🇪🇸 inmoralidad

🇹🇷 ahlaksızlık

🇰🇷 비도덕성

🇸🇦 فساد أخلاقي

🇨🇿 nemorálnost

🇸🇰 nemorálnosť

🇨🇳 不道德

🇸🇮 nemoralnost

🇮🇸 siðleysi

🇰🇿 имморальдық

🇬🇪 ამორალურობა

🇦🇿 əxlaqsızlıq

🇲🇽 inmoralidad

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,941, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.