Unrighteous: meaning, definitions and examples

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unrighteous

 

[ ʌnˈraɪtʃəs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

moral behavior

Not righteous; sinful; wicked.

Synonyms

immoral, sinful, wicked.

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Word Description / Examples
unrighteous

Used often in a religious or moral context to describe someone or something that is not acting in accordance with what is considered morally right.

  • His unrighteous actions brought shame to his family.
  • They lived an unrighteous life, ignoring the teachings of their faith.
sinful

Specifically connected to religious contexts to describe actions or behaviors that are considered to be against the divine law.

  • Lying is considered sinful in many religions.
  • He sought forgiveness for his sinful deeds.
wicked

Typically used to describe something or someone as very evil or morally wrong. Often conveys a stronger negative connotation and can be used in casual or dramatic contexts.

  • The wicked witch cast a spell on the village.
  • His wicked plans were finally revealed.
immoral

Refers to behavior or actions that go against accepted moral standards and can be applied in both secular and religious contexts.

  • Cheating on the exam was an immoral act.
  • Her immoral behavior was criticized by the community.

Examples of usage

  • He was accused of unrighteous behavior towards his employees.
  • Her unrighteous actions led to her downfall.
  • The unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

Translations

Translations of the word "unrighteous" in other languages:

🇵🇹 injusto

🇮🇳 अन्यायपूर्ण

🇩🇪 ungerecht

🇮🇩 tidak adil

🇺🇦 несправедливий

🇵🇱 niesprawiedliwy

🇯🇵 不正

🇫🇷 injuste

🇪🇸 injusto

🇹🇷 adaletsiz

🇰🇷 불공정한

🇸🇦 ظالم

🇨🇿 nespravedlivý

🇸🇰 nespravodlivý

🇨🇳 不公正

🇸🇮 nepravičen

🇮🇸 óréttlátur

🇰🇿 әділетсіз

🇬🇪 უსამართლო

🇦🇿 ədalətsiz

🇲🇽 injusto

Etymology

The word 'unrighteous' originated from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'righteous' meaning 'morally good or justified'. It has been used in the English language to describe immoral or wicked behavior since the late Middle English period. The concept of righteousness has deep roots in various religious and ethical traditions, with 'unrighteous' serving as the opposite of virtuous or morally upright.

See also: righteousness.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,478, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.