Scandalized

To be deeply shocked, offended, or disgusted by something considered morally wrong or improper. This often involves a violation of social norms, ethical standards, or personal values. The feeling can range from mild disapproval to intense outrage and can lead to public condemnation or social ostracism. The cause of the scandal can vary widely, including dishonest actions, immoral behavior, or revelations that are considered inappropriate for the context they are presented in. The depth of being scandalized is often determined by the degree to which the event violates a person's core beliefs or the perceived societal standards. It provokes strong emotional reactions.

Scandalized meaning with examples

• The community was utterly scandalized when the mayor was accused of accepting bribes from a local developer. The news triggered widespread outrage, public protests, and calls for his resignation, all stemming from a deeply rooted sense of moral betrayal and a disregard for his position.
• Upon discovering her husband's infidelity, Sarah was deeply scandalized, feeling betrayed and humiliated. The violation of her trust led her to feel emotionally shaken, leading to a complex mixture of anger, grief, and a struggle to reconcile her image of their relationship.
• The Victorian era was known for being very easily scandalized, leading to societal restrictions. The unveiling of a woman's ankle was once enough to cause widespread disapproval, demonstrating how easily social expectations could be challenged and perceived as transgressions.
• Many were scandalized by the artist's provocative performance art piece, which pushed boundaries of what was considered acceptable public displays. Its departure from traditional norms was met with harsh criticism and ignited a fierce debate concerning artistic freedom and censorship.