constitutional scruples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "constitutional scruples" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing concerns or reservations related to constitutional principles or legal frameworks. Example: "The judge expressed constitutional scruples regarding the proposed legislation, fearing it might infringe on individual rights."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

More significantly, what became known as the Louisiana Purchase violated Jefferson's constitutional scruples.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ready to set aside similar constitutional scruples, the Montagnards tailored their policies to the imperatives of "revolutionary necessity" and unity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Constitutional Commissions, 1987 Constitution.

Bandung: Journal of the Global South

He conceded that he was "embarrassed by scruples deriving from his interpretation of the Constitution".

Forbes

What we see around us is a breakdown of Constitutional restrictions, of public debate, and of political action, & also a breakdown of will, judgment, and moral scruple It represents an extreme-though one trusts not final-collapse of the constraints that a free people exercises over its war machine & its leaders.

The New Yorker

China has fewer scruples.

The Guardian

The scruples were lost.

The Guardian

American universities have fewer scruples.

The Guardian - Books

"Scruples?" she asks, apparently mystified.

The Guardian

"No scruples, no religion, nothing".

The New York Times

John has no such scruples.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "constitutional scruples" to express specific ethical concerns rather than general disagreements with constitutional interpretations. For broader disagreements, consider "constitutional concerns" or "constitutional objections".

Common error

Avoid using "constitutional scruples" when simply referring to disagreements with constitutional interpretations. "Scruples" implies a moral or ethical hesitation, whereas "concerns" is a broader term for worries or doubts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constitutional scruples" functions as a noun phrase, where 'constitutional' acts as an adjective modifying 'scruples'. It denotes ethical or moral reservations related to the principles or applications of a constitution. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "constitutional scruples" is a phrase used to describe ethical or moral reservations about actions or policies in relation to a constitution. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound, though its usage is relatively rare. It's most commonly found in news articles and encyclopedic content. When using this phrase, ensure the context involves a genuine ethical dilemma and isn't just a general disagreement with a constitutional interpretation. The phrase is distinct from "constitutional concerns", which is broader. Alternatives include "constitutional reservations" or specifying "ethical objections to constitutional law" for increased clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constitutional reservations

Focuses on expressing doubts or hesitations regarding constitutional matters.

constitutional concerns

Highlights worries or anxieties related to constitutional principles.

constitutional hesitations

Focuses on pausing or hesitating due to constitutional questions.

constitutional misgivings

Emphasizes feelings of unease or doubt about the constitutionality of something.

constitutional constraints

Focuses on the limitations or restrictions imposed by a constitution.

constitutional objections

Highlights formal opposition based on constitutional grounds.

constitutional impediments

Highlights obstacles or hindrances that are of constitutional nature.

legal scruples

Broadens the scope to ethical considerations within the legal framework, not specifically constitutional.

ethical reservations about constitutional law

Specifically points to ethical considerations related to constitutional law, adding a layer of moral judgment.

moral hesitations regarding constitutional principles

Focuses on moral and ethical doubts related to constitutional principles, emphasizing the ethical dimension.

FAQs

What does "constitutional scruples" mean?

The phrase "constitutional scruples" refers to ethical or moral reservations one might have about the application or implications of constitutional law. It suggests a conflict between one's conscience and what is legally permissible under the constitution.

How can I use "constitutional scruples" in a sentence?

You can use "constitutional scruples" to describe situations where someone hesitates to act due to ethical concerns about whether an action aligns with constitutional principles. For example, "The president's advisor expressed "legal scruples" regarding the proposed executive order."

Are there alternatives to the phrase "constitutional scruples"?

Yes, depending on the specific context, you could use phrases like "constitutional reservations", "constitutional concerns", or "ethical objections to constitutional law".

What is the difference between "constitutional scruples" and "constitutional concerns"?

"Constitutional scruples" specifically implies an ethical or moral hesitation, suggesting a conflict between conscience and constitutional law. "Constitutional concerns" is a broader term that encompasses any worries, doubts, or objections related to constitutional principles, without necessarily implying a moral conflict.