pflichtwidrig
Translation
in breach of duty, unprofessional, derelict
Examples
Sein Handeln war eindeutig pflichtwidrig.
His action was clearly a breach of duty.
Er hat sich pflichtwidrig verhalten.
He behaved in breach of his duty.
Grammar Patterns
to be ((in breach of duty)) Sein Verhalten war pflichtwidrig.
to behave ((in breach of duty)) Er hat sich pflichtwidrig verhalten.
Similar Words
Synonyms: derelict, unprofessional; Antonyms: pflichtgemäß (in accordance with duty), pflichtbewusst (conscientious)
Etymology
Composed of 'Pflicht' (duty) and 'widrig' (contrary, against). Literally 'duty-contrary'.
Memory Tips
Break it down: 'Pflicht' (duty) + 'widrig' (against). It's a very direct way to say 'against one's duty'.