unethical
/ʌnˈeθɪkl/ (bre, ipa) · /ʌnˈeθɪkl/ (ame, ipa) · /ˌən-ˈe-thi-kəl/ (ame, mw)
unethical — adjective
- unethicalpositive
- more unethicalcomparative
- most unethicalsuperlative
1. against accepted moral or professional rules about what is right and wrong — use
against accepted moral or professional rules about what is right and wrong — used especially to describe actions, decisions, or behavior that fail to meet the standards expected in a particular field or society.
It is unethical for a lawyer to share a client's secrets without permission.
it is unethical for [someone] to [do something]
The board found that the CEO's secret deal with a competitor was completely unethical.
Sahil's research was rejected because his data collection methods were considered unethical.
Brooke stopped buying from the company after learning about its unethical labor practices.
Rania faced a formal review for what the hospital called unethical conduct toward her patients.
- immoral
Broader in scope; covers personal moral failings beyond professional or social standards. Unethical is more commonly used for professional conduct.
- unscrupulous
Highlights a lack of moral principles rather than a specific action. An unscrupulous person is willing to act unfairly to gain an advantage.
- dishonest
Narrower — specifically about deception or lying. Unethical covers dishonest actions but also other kinds of wrongdoing.
- corrupt
Implies misuse of power or position for personal gain, often involving bribery. Stronger and more specific than unethical.
- ethical
Direct opposite; conforming to accepted moral and professional standards.
- moral
Broader in scope; refers to general principles of right and wrong rather than professional codes.
- principled
Implies acting according to strong, consistent ethical principles; more positive and proactive than ethical.
文法句型
it is unethical for [someone] to [do something]
[noun] was considered unethical
[noun] was unethical
用法筆記
Frequently used in formal contexts such as business, law, and academic writing. The word carries strong disapproval and implies a violation of shared standards, not merely a difference in personal opinion. The opposite ethical is more common in everyday speech.