based on moral grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on moral grounds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing decisions, actions, or beliefs that are influenced by ethical considerations or principles. Example: "The committee decided to reject the proposal based on moral grounds, believing it would harm the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The fourth group of arguments is based on moral grounds, sometimes with strong missionary implications.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Even then, our opposition wasn't really based on moral grounds either.

The New York Times

If and when campaign finance reform ever happens, and it clearly will not happen under a Republican administration, politicians can make decisions based on moral grounds instead of on personal and party financial gain.

The New York Times

A law prohibiting guns from places of worship, Mr. DiPippa said, is similar to a law requiring that churches permit guns, because the government is forcing a decision on a religious institution based on moral grounds.

The New York Times

Arguably, objections to evolutionary theory based on moral grounds (e.g., evolutionary theory stripping meaning from our lives) are associated with religious orientation (Dennett 1995; Scott 2004).

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Other health considerations, like low-fat or low-calorie options are also legitimate, and food choices based on moral grounds deserve to be respected too.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

To conclude, it does not seem possible to make a clear-cut distinction between erotic art and pornography based on moral or feminist grounds.

SEP

In academic circles, Harvard's Sabina Alkire and Lincoln Chen urge that developed countries' migration policy "should adopt 'medical exceptionalism' based on moral and ethical grounds" [ 4].

Human Resources for Health

They have been contentious inside the British establishment for 70 years, never properly scrutinised because opposition to them was usually based on moral and not practical grounds.

The Guardian

New Jersey also allows pharmacists to refuse to dispense any drug based on moral, ethical, or religious grounds.

Vice

Arguments from morality tend to be based on moral normativity or moral order.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "based on moral grounds", ensure that the moral principles are clearly defined or understood within the context to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify which moral framework (e.g., utilitarianism, deontology) informs the decision.

Common error

Avoid using "based on moral grounds" as a blanket justification without providing specific moral reasoning. Clearly articulate the ethical principles that support the decision or viewpoint to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on moral grounds" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to modify a verb or noun, indicating the foundation or reason for an action, belief, or decision. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "based on moral grounds" serves as a robust indicator that a decision, action, or belief stems from ethical considerations. As Ludwig AI's analysis confirms, it is grammatically sound and functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, offering justification rooted in morality. While considered 'Uncommon', its presence across diverse sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and Huffington Post underscores its relevance. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the specific moral principles in play to avoid ambiguity and bolster the argument's credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on ethical grounds

Replaces "moral" with "ethical", maintaining the same meaning with a slight variation in word choice.

for moral reasons

Simplifies the structure using "reasons" instead of "grounds", making it more direct.

grounded in morality

Uses a participial phrase to emphasize the foundation of morality.

morally justified

Focuses on the justification aspect, indicating that the action is morally defensible.

premised on ethical principles

Replaces "based" with "premised" and specifies "ethical principles" for greater clarity.

with moral considerations

Highlights the inclusion of moral factors in the decision-making process.

guided by moral compass

Employs a metaphorical expression to convey moral direction.

dictated by ethical standards

Emphasizes the controlling influence of ethical standards.

in accordance with moral values

Highlights alignment with a defined set of moral values.

from a moral standpoint

Indicates a perspective or viewpoint rooted in morality.

FAQs

How can I use "based on moral grounds" in a sentence?

You can use "based on moral grounds" to explain why a decision was made or a belief is held, such as, "The company chose to divest from the industry "based on moral grounds", citing concerns about environmental impact."

What are some alternatives to "based on moral grounds"?

Alternatives include "on ethical grounds", "for moral reasons", or "grounded in morality". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "based on moral grounds" or "based on ethical grounds"?

Both "based on moral grounds" and "based on ethical grounds" are correct. "Moral" generally refers to personal principles of right and wrong, while "ethical" often refers to professional or societal standards. The distinction is subtle and context-dependent.

What does it mean to make a decision "based on moral grounds"?

Making a decision "based on moral grounds" means that the primary justification for the decision stems from principles of right and wrong, fairness, or other ethical considerations, rather than practical, financial, or legal factors.