English Reference

Word

immorality

Phoneticsim·moral·i·ty

US/ˌɪmɝˈæɫɪti/

UK/ɪməɹˈælɪti/

Definition

n. the quality of being against what is considered right and fair by society. It describes actions or ideas that most people think are wrong.

n. the quality of being contrary to accepted standards of moral conduct. Often used to describe specific actions, beliefs, or systems that violate ethical principles.

Examples

“The film was criticized for its immorality.”

“The philosopher argued that the system's immorality was the root cause of the recent social unrest.”

“While some viewed the novel's graphic depiction of violence as a necessary social commentary, others condemned it as a display of extreme immorality that would corrupt young readers.”

Examples

simple

“The film was criticized for its immorality.”

contextual

“The philosopher argued that the system's immorality was the root cause of the recent social unrest.”

complex

“While some viewed the novel's graphic depiction of violence as a necessary social commentary, others condemned it as a display of extreme immorality that would corrupt young readers.”

Real-World Examples

“In his memoirs, Bush did not deny the use of torture ; he denied the immorality of the torture.”
The Conversation 13 Aug 2026
“It is not a marker of immorality, or depravity of the soul.”
The Guardian 2 Dec 2024

This entry

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

QR code

englishreference.com/q/immorality

English Reference