Unethical: meaning, definitions and examples
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unethical
[ ʌnˈɛθɪk(ə)l ]
behavior
Not morally correct or acceptable; not conforming to approved standards of social or professional behavior.
Synonyms
dishonest, immoral, unprincipled, unscrupulous.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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unethical |
Used when something goes against the principles or standards of a particular profession or society. Often used in formal contexts, such as business or science.
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immoral |
Refers to actions that are considered wrong or evil according to moral standards. Used in both formal and informal contexts to highlight actions that go against common ethical norms.
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dishonest |
Describes someone who lies, cheats, or deceives. Commonly used in everyday situations to describe a lack of truthfulness or trust.
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unprincipled |
Describes someone who lacks moral principles or standards. Often used in a negative light to critique someone's character.
|
unscrupulous |
Used to describe someone who is willing to do anything, no matter how wrong, to achieve their goals. This term has strong negative connotations.
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Examples of usage
- His unethical behavior led to his dismissal from the company.
- She was criticized for her unethical business practices.
- The company was accused of engaging in unethical conduct.
- The decision to cut corners was seen as unethical by many.
- Unethical actions can have serious consequences.
Translations
Translations of the word "unethical" in other languages:
🇵🇹 não ético
🇮🇳 अनैतिक
🇩🇪 unethisch
🇮🇩 tidak etis
🇺🇦 неетичний
🇵🇱 nieetyczny
🇯🇵 非倫理的な
🇫🇷 non éthique
🇪🇸 no ético
🇹🇷 etik dışı
🇰🇷 비윤리적인
🇸🇦 غير أخلاقي
🇨🇿 neetický
🇸🇰 neetický
🇨🇳 不道德的
🇸🇮 neetično
🇮🇸 ósiðlegt
🇰🇿 этикалық емес
🇬🇪 არეთიკური
🇦🇿 etik olmayan
🇲🇽 no ético
Etymology
The word 'unethical' originated in the mid-19th century, combining the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'ethical' meaning 'relating to moral principles'. The concept of ethics has been a fundamental aspect of human society for centuries, guiding individuals and organizations in making moral decisions. The term 'unethical' is commonly used in various fields such as business, politics, and academia to describe actions or behaviors that are considered morally wrong or unacceptable.