Licentiousness: meaning, definitions and examples

Licentiousness is often used to describe a lack of moral discipline, especially in sexual behavior. It implies a disregard for social and moral standards.

• The novel depicted a society on the brink of collapse, rife with licentiousness and corruption.
• His licentiousness led to numerous scandals that tarnished his reputation.

Promiscuity is specifically related to having multiple sexual partners, often without the commitment to any of them. It is generally viewed negatively in many cultures.

• His promiscuity in college was well-known among his peers.
• The article discusses the consequences of promiscuity in modern society.

Debauchery refers to excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures, often involving a lot of partying with alcohol and drugs. It conveys a sense of moral decline and can be used in both historical and modern contexts.

• The king's court was known for its debauchery and excess.
• After a weekend of debauchery, he felt the need to rethink his lifestyle.

Immorality is a broader term that refers to actions or behavior that go against moral or ethical principles. It can apply to various forms of unethical conduct, not just related to sexual behavior.

• The movie addresses themes of immorality and the consequences it brings.
• She couldn't condone the immorality of cheating on exams.

Used when describing immoral or sexually unrestrained behavior. Often appears in formal or literary contexts with a negative connotation.

• The novel's protagonist justified his licentiousness as a form of rebellion against societal norms

Used when talking about someone's intentional neglect or defiance of rules and regulations. It can be used in formal and informal contexts, often with a critical tone.

• His blatant disregard for rules eventually got him expelled from the university

Describes behavior that is difficult to control or manage, often in reference to children or groups of people. It can also imply a lack of discipline.

• The teacher struggled with the unruliness of her students after recess

Used to describe actions that are wild, unpredictable, and lack order, often leading to confusion. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• The children exhibited chaotic behavior during the party, making it difficult for their parents to maintain control