a value system

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a value system" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a set of principles or beliefs that guide an individual's or group's behavior and decision-making. Example: "Her actions reflect a strong value system that prioritizes honesty and integrity in all aspects of life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There's a value system there.

The Economist

Media organisations share a value system.

The Guardian

"I didn't have a sensibility, a value system, an aesthetic.

The New Yorker

It offers a value system, an idea of what matters in the world.

The Guardian - Tech

Public schools can't be places where we allow children to grow without a value system.

The New York Times

But, unless shaped by a value system, globalization will mean an ever more lopsided world.

The New York Times

It was a world and a value system and social order my father had largely rejected.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A value system in which paying £75.3m for a 28-year-old barely raises an eyebrow.

The Guardian - Sport

It cannot establish a value system, win minds and hearts or build a functioning economy.

The New York Times

Or were they motivated by an allegiance to a value system of "just deserts", rather than by crude self-interest?

The Guardian - Books

His political interests were in social justice and ordinary people's struggles - a value system which came from his parents.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing organizational culture, clearly define the core tenets of the "value system" to avoid ambiguity and ensure everyone understands the guiding principles.

Common error

Avoid using "a value system" in overly abstract or vague contexts without specifying the values it encompasses. Provide concrete examples to illustrate the specific principles and beliefs involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a value system" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. As evidenced by Ludwig, it describes a set of principles or beliefs that guide behavior and decision-making.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a value system" is a common noun phrase used to describe a set of principles or beliefs that guide behavior and decision-making. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. While versatile, it's best used with clear, specific examples to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include "a moral code", "a belief system", and "a set of principles", depending on the desired nuance. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts, suggesting its relevance in discussing societal norms and organizational ethics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a belief system

Focuses more on the cognitive aspect of holding certain beliefs.

a system of beliefs

Similar to "a belief system" but emphasizes the structured nature.

a moral code

Emphasizes the ethical and moral principles that guide behavior.

a set of principles

Highlights the fundamental rules or guidelines that govern conduct.

a framework of values

Reverses the structure to emphasize the structural aspect of the values.

a guiding philosophy

Implies a broader, more comprehensive approach to life and decision-making.

an ethical framework

Stresses the structured and organized nature of the ethical considerations.

a moral compass

Metaphorically indicates a guide for ethical decision-making.

a personal ethos

Refers to an individual's characteristic spirit or fundamental values.

a set of ideals

Highlights aspirational beliefs and principles.

FAQs

How can I use "a value system" in a sentence?

You can use "a value system" to describe the principles or beliefs that guide an individual's or organization's behavior. For example, "The company operates according to "a value system" that prioritizes customer satisfaction and ethical practices."

What's the difference between "a value system" and "a belief system"?

While both relate to guiding principles, "a value system" emphasizes moral and ethical considerations, whereas "a belief system" encompasses a broader range of cognitive convictions, not necessarily tied to morality.

What can I say instead of "a value system"?

You can use alternatives like "a moral code", "a set of principles", or "an ethical framework" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "values system" or "a value system"?

"A value system" is more common and grammatically standard when referring to a single, defined system of values. "Values system" (plural) might be used to describe a broader concept or collection of value systems.