unconscionable
What does "unconscionable" mean?
The word "unconscionable" describes something that is so excessive, unfair, or morally wrong that it defies all reason or conscience. Think of it as a violation of basic human decency or a limit that has been crossed so sharply that it feels shocking. It is typically used in formal or legal contexts to criticize actions like charging exorbitant prices, making cruel decisions, or behaving in a way that shows a total lack of empathy. It carries a heavy weight, suggesting that the action is not just a mistake, but a profound failure of moral judgment.
"unconscionable" in conversation
Discussing a predatory business practice
Did you see the new interest rates they're charging?
Did you see the new interest rates they're charging?
It's absolutely unconscionable to target people who are already struggling.
It's absolutely unconscionable to target people who are already struggling.
Used here to emphasize the moral outrage regarding financial exploitation.
Debating a long work shift
They want us to work 24 hours straight without a break.
They want us to work 24 hours straight without a break.
That is unconscionable. We need to report this to HR immediately.
That is unconscionable. We need to report this to HR immediately.
Highlights that the request is beyond reasonable human endurance.
"unconscionable" in a sentence
The landlord's decision to evict the family in the middle of winter was unconscionable.
The landlord's decision to evict the family in the middle of winter was unconscionable.
It is unconscionable that such vast amounts of food are wasted while others go hungry.
It is unconscionable that such vast amounts of food are wasted while others go hungry.
The jury found the contract terms to be unconscionable, rendering the entire agreement unenforceable.
The jury found the contract terms to be unconscionable, rendering the entire agreement unenforceable.
