adj
unscrupulous
uhn-SKROOP-yuu-luhs
Unscrupulous (adj) means having no moral principles; willing to act dishonestly for personal gain. Example: “Unscrupulous landlords exploited tenants during the housing shortage.”
adj
1
Having no moral principles; willing to act dishonestly for personal gain.
"Unscrupulous landlords exploited tenants during the housing shortage."
"The scheme relied on unscrupulous salespeople pressuring vulnerable customers."
How to use unscrupulous
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWilling to cheat, lie, or exploit others without moral concern.
Common pairings
unscrupulous businessman
unscrupulous tactics
unscrupulous dealer
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more unscrupulous
- Superlative
- most unscrupulous
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ landlords exploited tenants during the housing shortage.
Etymology
From un- ("not") plus scrupulous, "having scruples or moral care."
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for unscrupulous
See all rhymes for unscrupulous →Frequently asked questions
What does “unscrupulous” mean?
The word “unscrupulous” means having no moral principles; willing to act dishonestly for personal gain. In plain terms, willing to cheat, lie, or exploit others without moral concern.
How do you pronounce “unscrupulous”?
“Unscrupulous” is pronounced uhn-SKROOP-yuu-luhs (/ˌʌnˈskɹuːpjʊləs/ in IPA).
How do you use “unscrupulous” in a sentence?
Here is “unscrupulous” used in a sentence: “Unscrupulous landlords exploited tenants during the housing shortage.”
What is the opposite of “unscrupulous”?
The opposite of “unscrupulous” — its antonyms — are scrupulous, ethical and upstanding.
What part of speech is “unscrupulous”?
“Unscrupulous” is an adjective.
