# unscrupulous

/ənsˈkɹupjəɫəs/ (US) · /ʌnskɹˈuːpjʊləs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unscrupulous
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

having no moral principles and not caring about being fair or honest. You use this to describe someone who will do anything to get what they want, even if it hurts others.

For teachers: showing a lack of moral principles or ethical standards. Often describes individuals or businesses that exploit others for personal gain or profit.

## Examples

- The unscrupulous salesman lied about the car's history.
- Unscrupulous landlords sometimes refuse to return security deposits even when the apartment is left in perfect condition.
- The investigation revealed how unscrupulous financial advisors had systematically targeted elderly clients, convincing them to move their life savings into high-risk, high-commission investment vehicles.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun like 'person', 'business', or 'method'.

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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.