total depravity: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Theological
Quick answer
What does “total depravity” mean?
A theological doctrine asserting that every aspect of human nature is thoroughly corrupted by sin.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A theological doctrine asserting that every aspect of human nature is thoroughly corrupted by sin.
A state of complete moral corruption, absolute wickedness, or the extreme degradation of character or environment.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage patterns are identical, primarily confined to religious discourse.
Connotations
In both dialects, the term's dominant connotation is theological. Outside of that context, it implies an extreme and absolute state of moral ruin.
Frequency
Rare in everyday conversation; slightly more frequent in American English due to higher prevalence of evangelical Protestant discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “total depravity” in a Sentence
[NP] + demonstrates total depravitythe doctrine/theory of + [total depravity]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used. A figurative misuse might be: 'The company's culture had sunk into a state of total depravity, with fraud at every level.'
Academic
Used in theology, religious studies, and occasionally in literature or philosophy to discuss human nature.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation. Might appear in intense, dramatic critique: 'The film portrayed a world of total depravity.'
Technical
A precise, defined term in Reformed/Calvinist Christian theology, denoting the extent of sin's effect on humanity.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “total depravity”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “total depravity”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “total depravity”
- Using it to mean 'a lot of bad behaviour' rather than 'inherent, comprehensive corruption'. Confusing it with 'totalitarian depravity'. Using it in informal contexts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. In theology, it means sin affects every part of a person (mind, will, emotions), not that every person commits the worst possible acts constantly.
It would sound extremely exaggerated and out of place. Terms like 'complete mess' or 'utter corruption' are more natural for everyday use.
It is a doctrinal emphasis particularly associated with Reformed Protestantism (Calvinism). Traditional Catholic theology teaches a wounded, but not totally depraved, human nature.
Theological opposites include concepts like 'original righteousness' or 'human innocence.' In secular terms, 'moral purity' or 'innate goodness' are antonyms.
A theological doctrine asserting that every aspect of human nature is thoroughly corrupted by sin.
Total depravity is usually formal, theological in register.
Total depravity: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtəʊt(ə)l dɪˈprævɪti/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtoʊt(ə)l dɪˈprævɪti/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[no direct idioms; often used as a standalone concept]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'TOTAL'ly DEPRAVED - every part is ruined.
Conceptual Metaphor
HUMAN NATURE IS A CORRUPTED/POLLUTED SUBSTANCE.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'total depravity' most precisely and correctly used?