The word immoral (adjective) describes actions, behavior, or people that go against accepted standards of right and wrong. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use immoral correctly in sentences.
Immoral Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word immoral, including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meanings of Immoral
Immoral means not conforming to accepted standards of morality. It refers to behavior that is considered wrong, unethical, or wicked based on cultural, religious, or personal values.
Definition
Immoral refers to something that violates moral principles, such as honesty, kindness, justice, or decency. It describes actions or behavior that are considered wrong, unethical, or sinful by societal norms or personal beliefs. An immoral person knowingly engages in behavior that is harmful, dishonest, or corrupt. The term is often used in discussions of ethics, law, religion, or philosophy to criticize actions that go against the commonly accepted standards of what is right or good.
Unlike amoral, which refers to a lack of morality altogether, immoral implies awareness and deliberate disregard of ethical values.
Etymology
The word immoral comes from the prefix “im-” meaning “not” and the root word “moral,” which comes from the Latin “moralis,” meaning “custom” or “proper behavior.” “Moral” entered the English language in the late 14th century, and “immoral” followed in the 17th century as its direct opposite. The Latin root “mor-” refers to manners and character, so immoral literally means “not in line with proper conduct.” Over time, immoral became associated with deliberate actions that violate widely accepted ethical codes or virtues, especially in religious, legal, or cultural settings.
Example Sentences
- He was criticized for his immoral behavior during the negotiations.
- The film explores the consequences of living an immoral lifestyle.
Immoral Synonyms
- Unethical
- Sinful
- Corrupt
- Wicked
- Vicious
- Dishonest
- Depraved
- Wrong
- Shameful
- Unrighteous
Immoral Antonyms
- Moral
- Ethical
- Honest
- Righteous
- Virtuous
- Just
- Principled
- Respectable
- Decent
- Good
FAQs about Immoral
Here are some FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about the word “Immoral”
1. What does immoral mean?
It means going against accepted moral standards or principles.
2. Is immoral the same as illegal?
No, something immoral may not be illegal, and something illegal may not always be immoral. They relate to different systems (ethics vs law).
3. Can someone be immoral without realizing it?
Typically, immoral implies awareness, but some may act immorally without understanding the consequences or social standards.
4. Is immoral worse than amoral?
Yes, immoral often implies deliberate wrongdoing, while amoral means lacking a sense of morality altogether.
5. Can immoral describe actions as well as people?
Yes, both actions and individuals can be described as immoral if they go against ethical or moral values.