basis of virtue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basis of virtue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the foundational principles or underlying reasons that define what is considered virtuous behavior or morality. Example: "In many philosophical discussions, the basis of virtue is often debated, with various schools of thought offering different interpretations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The "Five Vermin" chapter (49) presents an important and provocative argument that threatens to undermine the basis of virtue ethics.

SEP

They quote Spinoza's statement that "The [effort] to preserve oneself is the primary and sole basis of virtue".

Evolution: Education and Outreach

The first is to acquire the knowledge which is the basis of virtue; the second is to instill in the appetites and emotions--which cannot grasp the knowledge--a docility so that they react in a compliant way to what reason knows to be the best thing to do.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It proclaimed all traditional civil ranks to be destitute, indicating that the only acceptable distinctions were to be made on the basis of "virtues and services to the motherland", and creating a national guard.

Wikipedia

Unlike, for instance, Aristotle, Montesquieu does not distinguish forms of government on the basis of the virtue of the sovereign.

SEP

When the Count dismisses Figaro as idle and dissolute, the latter instantly asks: "On the basis of the virtues commonly required in a servant, does Your Excellency know many masters who would pass muster as valets?" And it is Figaro who takes the initiative in suggesting that Almaviva insinuates himself into Bartholo's house as a drunken soldier.

The Guardian - Music

Goodness, which is the basis of morality and virtue, is an objective property, one that is independent of all human minds, and it is reason that can inform us of what that property consists.

SEP

Similarly, in his introductory essay 'Contemporary Interpretations of Desert' Owen McLeod says 'The contemporary literature is agreed that desert...is a three-place relation: it binds three sorts of thing: (a) a subject, (b) a thing deserved by the subject, and (c) a basis in virtue of which the subject deserves it' (1999a, 61-2).

SEP

There are those who, on the basis of their particular theory of virtue, deny that loyalty could be a virtue.

SEP

There is also at least some chance, given A.I.G.'s functional insolvency and the government takeover, that these agreements may be rescinded either on the basis of impracticability or by virtue of unforeseeable and uncontrollable circumstances.

The New York Times

He sets out the principles of moral conduct based on his philosophical account of rational agency, and then on that basis defines virtue as the trait of acting according to these principles.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts in ethics or philosophy, use "basis of virtue" to refer to the core principles that inform virtuous behavior. Be specific about what constitutes this basis in your argument or analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "basis of virtue" without specifying what that basis actually is. For example, instead of saying 'Education is the basis of virtue', clarify by stating 'Education, specifically the development of critical thinking skills, is the basis of virtue'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basis of virtue" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies the fundamental element or principle upon which virtue is grounded, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

67%

News & Media

17%

Encyclopedias

16%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "basis of virtue" is a grammatically sound expression used to explore the foundational principles of virtuous conduct. According to Ludwig AI, it functions primarily as a noun phrase and serves to define or explain the essential elements underpinning moral goodness. While the phrase maintains a formal tone, it's most commonly found in philosophical, scientific, and academic discussions. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by explicitly stating what constitutes the "basis" you are referring to. Though the phrase is correct and usable, bear in mind that it is relatively uncommon. Considering alternatives like "foundation of virtue" or "source of virtue" can enrich your writing depending on the nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foundation of virtue

Emphasizes the idea of a stable and underlying structure that supports virtue.

source of virtue

Highlights the origin from which virtuous qualities or actions arise.

groundwork for virtue

Focuses on the preparatory or initial stages that enable virtue to develop.

underlying principle of virtue

Specifies that virtue is rooted in a more abstract or fundamental guideline.

moral basis

Refers to the underlying ethical justification or rationale.

ethical foundation

Highlights the system of moral beliefs or principles that support virtue.

cornerstone of virtue

Implies a crucial element upon which virtue depends or is built.

root of virtue

Indicates the fundamental cause or origin of virtuous traits.

essence of virtue

Denotes the most important or indispensable quality that defines virtue.

moral bedrock

Suggests a solid and unwavering foundation for ethical behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "basis of virtue" in a sentence?

You can use "basis of virtue" to discuss the fundamental principles or sources that underlie virtuous behavior. For example, "The philosopher argued that empathy is the "basis of virtue" in a just society".

What are some alternatives to "basis of virtue"?

Alternatives include "foundation of virtue", "source of virtue", or "underlying principle of virtue", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "basis of virtue" in formal writing?

Yes, "basis of virtue" is suitable for formal writing, especially in philosophical, ethical, or academic contexts. It is a clear and precise way to discuss the foundational elements of virtuous behavior.

What is the difference between "basis of virtue" and "moral foundation"?

"Basis of virtue" specifically refers to the underlying principles that define virtuous behavior, while "moral foundation" is a broader term that encompasses the entire system of moral beliefs and values. The "moral basis" may include elements beyond just what constitutes virtue.