Verwerflich

Verwerflich is a German adjective used to describe actions, attitudes, or ideas that are morally reprehensible and deserve rejection. The term conveys normative condemnation, typically appearing in formal, moral, or legal discourse. It implies that something is not merely wrong or improper, but worthy of moral censure.

Etymology and meaning: Verwerflich comes from the verb verwerfen, meaning to reject or dismiss, combined with the suffix -lich to form an adjective. The sense is that the thing described is of a kind that should be rejected.

Usage: The word is relatively formal and can be found in editorial writing, political or public debate, and judicial language. Common collocations include eine verwerfliche Tat (a reprehensible act), verwerfliches Verhalten (reprehensible conduct), or verwerfliche Ideologie. It marks a strong moral judgment beyond ordinary disapproval.

Grammar: Verwerflich inflects like other -lich adjectives. For example: eine verwerfliche Handlung, der verwerfliche Gedanke, die verwerfliche Haltung. Plural: verwerfliche Handlungen. The comparative is verwerflicher, the superlative am verwerflichsten.

Translations, synonyms, and contrasts: In English, verwerflich is often translated as reprehensible, blameworthy, or condemnable. Related terms include verachtenswert (contemptible) or Verwerflichkeit (the quality of being reprehensible). Antonyms include lobenswert (worthy of praise) and würdig.

Cross-linguistic note: A closely related Dutch term is verwerpelijk, with a similar meaning and usage.