What does objectionable mean?
Objectionable is an adjective meaning likely to provoke strong disapproval or objection. It describes conduct, material, proposals, or situations that are regarded as offensive, inappropriate, immoral, or otherwise unacceptable by prevailing social or moral standards. The word is stronger than simply saying that something is disliked: “objectionable” suggests that the thing in question violates a broadly recognized standard of propriety, fairness, or good taste, although the exact force of the judgment can vary across communities and contexts. In formal writing, it is often used to condemn language, behaviour, commercial material, or institutional practices, and it may be paired with words such as “deeply,” “highly,” or “widely.” Because the term can sound stern and censorious, writers normally provide the reason for the objection rather than relying on it as a vague accusation. It is common in legal, ethical, editorial, and public-discourse settings.
adjectiveLikely to cause objection or disapproval, especially because it is offensive, inappropriate, or unacceptable according to conventional standards of taste or morality.
- Likely to cause objection or disapproval, especially on moral, social, or aesthetic grounds.
- Unacceptable, inappropriate, or objectionable according to prevailing standards.
"The committee considered the proposal deeply objectionable and rejected it without further discussion."
"The advertisement was considered objectionable because it openly mocked people's disabilities."
"His objectionable behaviour in public led several witnesses to contact the police."
When a situation is called objectionable, the problem is not simply that someone dislikes it: it suggests that conventional standards of propriety, fairness, or acceptability are being violated.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does objectionable come from?
“Objectionable” was formed in English in the 18th century from “objection” plus the suffix “-able,” meaning “capable of being objected to” or “liable to provoke objection.” “Objection” itself comes through French from Latin forms based on “obicere,” a compound of “ob-” and “jacere,” associated with throwing something against or in the way of another person. Related English words include “object,” “objective,” and “reject,” which reflect the same broader history of presenting something before others for judgment or opposition.
Related word forms
How objectionable is actually used
The word is formal and generally implies more than mere personal dislike: it is used for conduct, materials, proposals, or situations that are judged seriously inappropriate, offensive, or contrary to accepted standards. Its force can depend on context and the standards of the community discussing the matter.
Easily confused with objectionable
“Objected” means that someone expressed opposition, whereas “objectionable” describes something that is likely to provoke opposition or disapproval.
“Objective” means fair, impartial, or based on evidence, while “objectionable” means deserving of disapproval or likely to be rejected.