# deplorable

/dɪˈpɫɔɹəbəɫ/ (US) · /dɪplˈɔːɹəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deplorable
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

very bad and shocking. You use this to describe behavior or conditions that are so poor they deserve to be criticized.

For teachers: deserving strong condemnation; shockingly bad in quality or morality.

## Examples

- The living conditions in the old prison were deplorable.
- The committee issued a report describing the company's safety record as deplorable and demanding immediate changes.
- Historians have often reflected on the deplorable treatment of political prisoners during that era, noting the systematic disregard for basic human rights.

## Usage notes

- Typically used to modify nouns representing conditions, behavior, or standards; often follows a linking verb like 'be' or 'remain'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.