Definition

Noun: 1. The quality or state of being undutiful; failure to fulfill one's duty or obligation. This refers to a lack of proper respect, obedience, or conscientiousness, especially towards parents, superiors, or one's responsibilities. 2. Impiety or disrespect manifested through neglect of duty. This sense emphasizes the moral or ethical failing inherent in not performing expected duties.

Usage

Undutifulness is a formal noun used to describe a character trait or a specific act of failing to meet an obligation. It often carries a strong moral judgment and is frequently used in contexts discussing family relationships, social roles, or professional responsibilities.

Examples

• The king disinherited his son for his undutifulness and constant rebellion.
• In the novel, the character's undutifulness towards her aging parents is a central theme of her moral downfall.
• The manager would not tolerate undutifulness; he expected all tasks to be completed promptly and thoroughly.

Advanced Usage

• "A spirit of undutifulness": This phrase describes a persistent attitude or disposition of being unwilling to fulfill duties.
  • The new policies were met with a spirit of undutifulness among the staff.

Variants and Related Words

• Undutiful (adjective): Failing to fulfill one's duty; disobedient.
  • He was criticized for his undutiful behavior.
• Dutifulness (noun): The quality of being dutiful; conscientiousness. (Antonym)
• Dereliction (noun): The shameful failure to fulfill one's duties. (Stronger synonym, often legal or official)

Synonyms

• Disobedience
• Disrespect
• Negligence (in the context of duty)
• Irreverence (especially towards superiors or tradition)
• Unfilialness (specifically towards parents)

Antonyms

• Dutifulness
• Obedience
• Respectfulness
• Conscientiousness
• Piety (in the context of duty)

Noun

1. impiety characterized by lack of devotion to duty