combination of virtues

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "combination of virtues" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a blend or mix of positive qualities or traits in a person or concept. Example: "Her leadership style is a combination of virtues such as empathy, integrity, and decisiveness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"There has never been a first lady quite like her, and it may be a while before one appears with the same combination of virtues: Ruth was intelligent, cultured, discreet and extremely capable".

The New York Times

And that combination of virtues may just make this Dutch treat not just a remarkable performance car, but a remarkable performance bargain.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Three combined views take the goal to be a combination of virtue and actually obtaining the corresponding object.

SEP

The point of arguing in support of the view that the goal is a combination of virtue and pleasure, on the other hand, was probably to show that taking pleasure as the ultimate object of impulse would require a recognizably virtuous life, a view for which there were Socratic antecedents in Plato's Protagoras.

SEP

Various cats were decorated with awards for combinations of virtues that included correct eye shape and proper size and bone structure.

The New Yorker

It is perhaps true that none of the contenders can quite match Mondragon's combination of goalkeeping virtues - his positional sense, authority and continued athleticism.

BBC

The young hero prevails through a combination of bravery, virtue and magic.

The New York Times

They may not be the investments they once were, but people still buy them for some combination of civic virtue and influence.

The Guardian - Opinion

8. Whether divine moral perfection should be understood as perfect goodness, perfect virtue, or an optimal combination of goodness and virtue, depends upon whether the correct theory of morality is consequentialist, deontological, or mixed (that is, a mixture of core elements of consequentialist and deontological moral theories).

SEP

Larry Iannotti embodies a combination of skills and virtues that is more unique than rare.

Yale University

Our analysis considers values as a combination of principles and virtues.

BMC Medical Ethics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's character, use the phrase "combination of virtues" to highlight a blend of positive traits, such as intelligence, kindness, and courage.

Common error

While "combination of virtues" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "blend of qualities" or "mix of strengths" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "combination of virtues" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes the possession of multiple positive qualities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "combination of virtues" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase used to describe the presence of multiple positive qualities. While relatively rare in overall usage, as supported by Ludwig's analysis, it appears most frequently in News & Media, Science, and Academia contexts. Alternative phrases include "blend of qualities" and "mix of strengths". When using the phrase, be mindful of overusing it and consider varying your language for better reader engagement. While not exceedingly common, it is a solid and acceptable expression to employ when aiming to convey the harmonious presence of multiple positive attributes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

blend of qualities

This alternative replaces "combination" with "blend", suggesting a smoother integration of the positive attributes.

mix of strengths

This alternative focuses on "strengths" instead of "virtues", highlighting capabilities and advantages.

suite of virtues

This alternative uses "suite" to imply a collection or set of virtues, often suggesting completeness.

cluster of virtues

This alternative presents the virtues as grouped together, emphasizing their interconnectedness.

array of virtues

This alternative suggests a diverse and well-organized set of virtues.

spectrum of virtues

This alternative evokes a range of virtues, implying a comprehensive and nuanced character.

collection of merits

This alternative uses "merits" instead of "virtues", shifting the focus to achievements and deserving qualities.

accumulation of excellences

This alternative emphasizes the gradual build-up of outstanding qualities.

aggregation of good qualities

This alternative uses a more formal tone, highlighting the gathering of positive attributes.

synthesis of moral attributes

This alternative implies a merging of different moral characteristics into a unified whole.

FAQs

How can I use "combination of virtues" in a sentence?

You can use "combination of virtues" to describe someone or something possessing several positive qualities. For example, "Her success was due to a combination of virtues including hard work and dedication."

What are some alternatives to "combination of virtues"?

You can use alternatives like "blend of qualities", "mix of strengths", or "suite of virtues" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a combination of virtue" instead of "combination of virtues"?

While grammatically possible, "a combination of virtue" is less common and usually refers to a singular, general virtue rather than multiple specific positive traits. "Combination of virtues" is typically used when referring to several distinct good qualities.

What does it mean when someone is described as having a "combination of virtues"?

It means that the person possesses multiple positive character traits or qualities that work together harmoniously, contributing to their overall admirable character or effectiveness.