embodiment of virtue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "embodiment of virtue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a person or thing that exemplifies moral excellence or admirable qualities. Example: "She is often regarded as the embodiment of virtue, inspiring others with her integrity and kindness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A reflection on the social embodiment of virtues therefore suggests that authenticity, like many other character ideals, carries with it an obligation to contribute to the maintenance and well-being of a particular type of social organization and way of life (Guignon 2008: 2004 2004: 161).

SEP

The characters are allowed glancing, odd perceptions that shy away from questions of race and consequently turn them from one-note embodiments of virtue or evil into complicated human beings.

The New York Times - Books

She, on the other hand, is the embodiment of aristocratic virtue and resilience under duress.

The New York Times

He exceeded himself, and long after his official policies and decisions fade into irrelevance, he will be seen as the man who was voted out of office only to make himself the embodiment of public virtue and human decency.

Huffington Post

Far from being unserious, the coach of the national team is by virtue of the office he holds a public figure, a role model, an ambassador, the very embodiment of national virtues.

The Economist

And he hasn't... and he never will.' " In other words, Woods has been presented as the embodiment of bourgeois virtues: dedication, hard work, single-mindedness.

The New Yorker

It was a brand, as James Surowiecki argued in the New Yorker as the story was breaking in December 2009, that was built on "the embodiment of bourgeois virtues: dedication, hard work, single-mindedness".

The Guardian - Sport

Forceful, wise and selfless, they were stolid embodiments of republican virtue.

The Economist

Rama, one of the most widely worshipped Hindu deities, the embodiment of chivalry and virtue.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hogan was a real-life superhero, the embodiment of courage and virtue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Laperriere, another Quebecer (the Flyers are stocked with them) and the embodiment of the hockey virtue called "sandpaper," may be all the sand the Flyers need.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "embodiment of virtue", ensure that the subject genuinely exemplifies the qualities you are attributing to them. Provide specific examples to support your claim and enhance the impact of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "embodiment of virtue" to describe someone casually or without significant justification. Overusing the phrase diminishes its impact and can make your writing sound insincere. Reserve it for truly exceptional cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "embodiment of virtue" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a descriptor or appositive to identify someone or something that perfectly represents virtuous qualities. It's used to express that the subject is the ultimate representation of moral excellence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "embodiment of virtue" is a grammatically sound and semantically rich expression used to describe someone or something that perfectly exemplifies virtuous qualities. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable, it functions as a noun phrase, carrying a formal and admiring tone. While less frequent than other common phrases, it appears across diverse sources, predominantly in news, encyclopedias, and academic contexts. To effectively employ this phrase, ensure that its usage is justified with specific examples, avoiding overuse to maintain its impact. Alternatives such as ""epitome of virtue"" or ""paragon of virtue"" can also be used to express similar meanings, depending on the specific nuance desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

epitome of virtue

Changes the word "embodiment" to "epitome", which also signifies a perfect example or representation, maintaining a high degree of semantic similarity.

personification of virtue

Replaces "embodiment" with "personification", emphasizing the representation of virtue in a human form or character.

living example of virtue

Substitutes "embodiment" with "living example", highlighting the active and demonstrable nature of the virtue being represented.

model of virtue

Replaces "embodiment" with "model", suggesting someone or something that serves as a pattern for virtuous behavior.

paragon of virtue

Uses "paragon" instead of "embodiment", indicating a person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular quality.

ideal of virtue

Shifts from a concrete representation to an abstract ideal, suggesting a standard of virtue rather than a specific instance.

quintessence of virtue

Replaces "embodiment" with "quintessence", implying the purest and most essential form of virtue.

symbol of virtue

Uses "symbol" to indicate that the person or thing represents virtue, but may not necessarily embody it completely.

essence of virtue

Focuses on the core nature of virtue, suggesting the inherent and fundamental qualities of virtue are present.

perfect example of virtue

More explicitly states the idea of being a perfect example, removing the more figurative term "embodiment".

FAQs

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

You can use "embodiment of virtue" to describe a person or thing that perfectly represents virtuous qualities. For example, "She is often regarded as the "embodiment of virtue", inspiring others with her integrity and kindness."

What are some alternatives to "embodiment of virtue"?

You can use alternatives like "epitome of virtue", "personification of virtue", or "paragon of virtue" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "embodiment of virtue" is appropriate for formal writing when used accurately to describe someone or something that truly exemplifies virtue. However, consider the audience and context to ensure it resonates well.

What distinguishes "embodiment of virtue" from "a virtuous person"?

"A virtuous person" simply possesses virtue, while the phrase ""embodiment of virtue"" suggests that someone is a perfect representation or example of virtue, highlighting a more complete and exemplary manifestation of it.