unethical

UK: ʌnˈeθɪk(ə)l | US: ʌnˈeθɪk(ə)l

Definition

  1. adj. not morally correct or acceptable

  2. adj. violating accepted principles of conduct

Structure
un <not>ethic <moral principle>al <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "unethical" combines the negative prefix "un-" (from Old English "un-," meaning "not") with "ethical," which derives from the Greek "ethikos" (relating to character or morals). The suffix "-al" (from Latin "-alis") forms adjectives. Thus, "unethical" literally means "not conforming to moral principles," reflecting a clear negation of accepted behavioral standards.

Examples

  1. The company was fined for unethical business practices.

  2. Lying to clients is considered unethical in most professions.

  3. The journalist resigned over allegations of unethical reporting.

  4. Using confidential information for personal gain is clearly unethical.

  5. The committee condemned the scientist's unethical experiments.