1.
lack of virtue; immorality; personal failing
A formal term for moral failings or shortcomings in character. Most commonly encountered in the set phrase of apology: "owing to my lack of virtue."
Usage
不徳 is almost always encountered in the fixed expression 不徳の致すところ, a very formal apology meaning "it is the result of my lack of virtue / personal failings." This phrase is commonly used by politicians, executives, and public figures when taking responsibility for scandals or mistakes.
Common patterns
- 不徳の致すところです — it is due to my own failings (accepting full blame)
- 私の不徳の致すところ — the fault is entirely mine
Register
Very formal and humble; not used in casual conversation.