a matter of integrity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a matter of integrity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing issues related to honesty, ethics, or moral principles. Example: "For me, standing up for what is right is not just a choice; it's a matter of integrity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

A matter of integrity?

The New York Times - Arts

It is a matter of integrity.

The Guardian - Sport

"It's a matter of integrity and not cashing in, as I've heard people say".

The Guardian - Music

When others disagreed with his analysis, he made it a matter of integrity, as opposed to a matter of judgment".

The New Yorker

The fact that the Seal did not admit using the grenade immediately is seen as a matter of integrity among senior officers.

The Guardian

Imagine holding over 350,000 taped conversations of vulnerable young people, and as a matter of integrity, law and best-practice, be bound to protect them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

It is a matter of territorial integrity.

The Guardian - Opinion

The scientists urged the American Geophysical Union to reject funding from Exxon, as a matter of scientific integrity.

The Guardian

Upgrading his discharge, he said, "is a matter of personal integrity".

The New York Times

But back to Magnanti, who must now defend the fact she was an escort as a matter of authorial integrity.

Independent

"Sometimes it's personal and sometimes it's professional". It's not just a matter of personal integrity, though.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a matter of integrity" to emphasize that a decision or action is not simply a matter of convenience or preference, but rather a fundamental requirement of ethical conduct.

Common error

Avoid using "a matter of integrity" in trivial situations or where the ethical stakes are low. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing seem melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a matter of integrity" functions as a noun phrase that serves to emphasize the critical importance of honesty, ethics, and moral principles in a given situation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Academia

6%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a matter of integrity" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase that underscores the critical importance of ethical principles. As noted by Ludwig, it is suitable for formal and neutral contexts, particularly in news, science, and business settings. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context clearly relates to ethical conduct, and avoid overusing it in trivial situations. Alternatives such as ""an ethical imperative"" or ""a moral obligation"" may be appropriate depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an ethical imperative

Emphasizes the moral obligation or necessity.

a question of ethics

Frames it as a problem needing ethical consideration.

a moral obligation

Highlights the duty based on moral principles.

a point of principle

Focuses on adherence to fundamental beliefs.

an issue of honesty

Specifically stresses the aspect of truthfulness.

a matter of principle

Emphasizes the role of guiding beliefs.

a question of morality

Presents it as a dilemma involving right and wrong.

a matter of ethics

Directly refers to a system of moral principles.

an honesty issue

Highlights problems with truthfulness or transparency.

a moral consideration

Presents it as something demanding moral thought.

FAQs

How can I use "a matter of integrity" in a sentence?

You can use "a matter of integrity" to emphasize that something is essential to your ethical principles. For example, "For me, honesty in business dealings is "a matter of integrity"".

What's the difference between "a matter of integrity" and "a matter of principle"?

"A matter of integrity" relates directly to honesty and moral uprightness, whereas "a matter of principle" refers to any guiding belief or fundamental rule. While related, integrity specifically highlights ethical conduct.

What can I say instead of "a matter of integrity"?

You can use alternatives like "an ethical imperative", "a question of ethics", or "a moral obligation" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "it's an integrity matter"?

While understandable, "it's an integrity matter" is less formal and less common than "it's "a matter of integrity"". The latter is more widely accepted in formal writing.