laudability

Laudability refers to the quality of being laudable, that is, deserving praise or commendation. The noun is formed from the adjective laudable, which derives from Latin laudabilis, from laudare, to praise. In English, laudability is used in ethics, political theory, and rhetoric to discuss the moral or intrinsic worth of actions, motives, or ends.

In ethical discourse, laudability relates to moral praise rather than practical effectiveness; an act may be laudable because it expresses virtue, such as honesty, courage, or charity, even if it yields limited results. Conversely, a virtuous-looking action may be criticized if it is hypocritical or ill-mated with harmful outcomes, illustrating that laudability is not automatic.

The phrase "laudable goals" is common in law, policy, and public debate to indicate aims regarded as worthy of pursuit, such as reducing poverty or protecting human rights. However, assessments of laudability are often contested and culturally contingent, reflecting differing moral frameworks and social norms.

Usage notes: laudability as a formal term is most common in academic, philosophical, or formal prose; in everyday language, speakers more often use praiseworthiness or commendability or simply describe actions as laudable. See also related concepts of virtue, merit, praiseworthiness, and commendation.