chastity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "chastity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to purity, honesty, or to suggest refraining from sexual activity outside of marriage. For example: "My parents always preached the importance of chastity when I was growing up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The exhibition also shows how pearls have often been seen as a sign of power and authority, in the medieval period, or as a symbol of purity and chastity, and that pearls can symbolise both love and sorrow.

The Guardian - Arts

They believe it protects a woman's chastity".

The Guardian

Prudish medieval Christians despised his detailed advice on the ins and outs of sex as "a cunning ploy to win converts", which undermine their own faith's fixation on virginity, chastity and monogamy.

The Economist

Against the intrinsic disorder of the human libido he proposed to reinforce, like a fortress, the institutions of family and marriage and the virtues of fidelity and chastity.

The Economist

In these communities, which sprang up spontaneously in and around the cities of the Low Countries from the early 13th century, women led lives of prayer, chastity and service, but were not bound by vows.

The Economist

VOWS of chastity may be praiseworthy, but 80m years is ridiculous.

The Economist

Those lobbyists argue that a popular alternative known in the jargon as "abstinence-plus"—which recommends chastity but also explains how to use condoms, is likely to make things worse by encouraging earlier intercourse.

The Economist

ONE school of thought about stopping the spread of AIDS is the keep-it-in-your-pants approach of chastity outside marriage and fidelity within.

The Economist

Yet he never violates her chastity, nor so much as talks to her.

The Economist

But desirable though chastity and continence might be (and achievable, too, if the under-15 data are reliable) they cannot do the job alone.

The Economist

She even won the votes of 20% of Republicans and 28% of conservatives, and came top of the poll in all but four of New York's 62 counties compared with 15 last time.In this section A new era of co-operation The rusty grenade The undecorated The anti-Don The known unknowns Carmakers' woes The uranium rush In praise of chastity And they're off!

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "chastity", consider the audience and context to ensure the term is appropriate. In some settings, less direct language might be preferable.

Common error

Avoid equating "chastity" solely with virginity. While virginity can be a component, "chastity" encompasses a broader commitment to sexual purity and fidelity within the bounds of marriage or a chosen celibate lifestyle. So, always consider the specific scenario.

Linguistic Context

Chastity primarily functions as a noun, denoting a state or quality. It refers to the virtue of sexual purity or abstinence. Ludwig shows its correct usage in various contexts related to morality, religion, and personal ethics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "chastity" is a noun denoting the state of abstaining from sexual activity considered immoral, or the virtue of sexual purity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in diverse contexts, from religious doctrine to ethical discussions. While predominantly found in formal and scientific writing, it also appears in news and media with a neutral tone. Synonyms include ""sexual abstinence"" and ""moral purity"". When using "chastity", consider your audience and context, and avoid limiting its definition solely to virginity, as it encompasses a broader commitment to sexual ethics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sexual abstinence

Focuses specifically on the act of refraining from sexual activity.

moral purity

Emphasizes the broader concept of moral integrity and innocence.

sexual purity

Highlights the aspect of being free from sexual defilement.

abstinence

Stresses the act of refraining from any indulgence, particularly sexual.

virginity

Refers to the state of never having engaged in sexual intercourse.

celibacy

Indicates a voluntary choice to abstain from marriage and sexual relations, often for religious reasons.

sexual continence

Emphasizes the ability to control sexual desires and impulses.

virtue

Points to moral excellence and righteousness, encompassing sexual morality.

self-restraint

Underscores the importance of personal control over one's desires and actions.

sexual morality

Focuses on adhering to ethical principles and standards in sexual behavior.

FAQs

What is the meaning of "chastity"?

"Chastity" refers to the state of abstaining from sexual activity considered immoral or adhering to sexual purity, especially within the context of marriage or celibacy.

What are some synonyms for "chastity"?

Synonyms for "chastity" include "sexual abstinence", "moral purity", "virginity", and "celibacy", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How is "chastity" different from "abstinence"?

"Abstinence" generally refers to refraining from any activity, whereas "chastity" specifically refers to refraining from sexual activity outside of marriage or a commitment to sexual purity.

Is "chastity" still a relevant concept today?

While views on sexuality have evolved, "chastity" remains a relevant concept for individuals and cultures that value sexual restraint, fidelity, and adherence to specific moral or religious beliefs.