Word
depravity
Phoneticsde·prav·i·ty, stress on the second syllable
US/dɪˈpɹævəti/
UK/dɪpɹˈævɪti/
Definition
n. the state of being very wicked or having no morals. It describes a person or society that has lost all sense of right and wrong.
n. the state of being morally corrupt or wicked; a lack of virtue or ethical standards.
Examples
“The novel explores the depravity of the characters.”
“The investigation revealed the depravity of the criminal organization's operations over several years.”
“The philosopher argued that human depravity is not inherent but is often the result of a society that fails to provide moral guidance or social stability.”
Examples
simple
“The novel explores the depravity of the characters.”
contextual
“The investigation revealed the depravity of the criminal organization's operations over several years.”
complex
“The philosopher argued that human depravity is not inherent but is often the result of a society that fails to provide moral guidance or social stability.”
Real-World Examples
“To what depravities might you stoop without the rule of law?” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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