depravity - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
depravity Word Meanings
- morally corrupt or wicked
- deviating from what is considered moral or good
- characterized by depravity
depravity Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
depravity Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈpreɪvd/
US
/dəˈpreɪvd/
depravity Word Etymology
de- = down, away + prave = crooked/ twisted. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a once straight path that has become twisted and corrupted, representing moral degradation.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Depraved is a strong adjective meaning morally corrupt or wicked, often describing acts, people, or behavior that flout basic ethical norms. It conveys far more condemnation than words like immoral or bad, and is common in literature, journalism, and formal critique. You might hear of a depraved serial killer or a depraved scheme as evidence of extreme moral failure. The nuance centers on sustained, egregious corruption rather than ordinary wrongdoing. In modern usage, it can carry a sense of revulsion toward character rather than merely describe a misdeed. Expect to see it paired with nouns like acts, crimes, impulses, content, or indifference.
Usage Reminders
- Depraved describes extreme moral corruption, not minor misbehavior.
- Use with acts, crimes, or attitudes that imply severe ethical violation.
- It carries strong condemnation; fit for formal, literary, or critical tone.
- Not interchangeable with immoral for everyday use; depraved implies depth and persistence.
- Common collocations include depraved act, depraved indifference, or a depraved mind.
Common Misconceptions
- Depraved does not refer to minor misbehavior or merely 'being evil' in a casual sense.
- It is not the noun 'depravity' when you need the adjective form.
- It does not describe institutions alone; it describes acts, people, or mindsets.
- It is stronger than 'immoral' and often implies sustained moral collapse.
- Avoid using it for everyday mistakes; reserve for extreme cases.
Thinking Differences
In English, depraved carries a formal, moral condemnatory tone. It’s common in literature and journalism to mark extreme evil; learners should not overuse it in everyday speech and should reserve it for acts that imply deep, sustained moral corruption.
Learning Tips
- Compare depraved with immoral and evil to feel nuance differences.
- Note common collocations like depraved indifference and depraved act.
- Reserve for extreme cases in serious writing.
- Watch tone: it should feel formal, not casual.
- Pair with nouns that highlight morality (crime, acts, mind, behavior).
- Practice with literary or journalistic samples to see natural usage.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App