ethical code

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ethical code" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to refer to a system or set of guidelines meant to establish and maintain standards of proper conduct. For example: "The company has a strict ethical code that requires employees to act with integrity and respect at all times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Asa Kasher, 69, has a chair in ethics at Tel Aviv University and helped write the Israeli military's ethical code.

The New York Times

Create an ethical code.

The New Yorker

I've broken no ethical code.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We live by an ethical code.

The New York Times

So is it time for an ethical code for architects?

The Guardian - Arts

Each individual must devise his own ethical code.

The New Yorker

-How is an ethical code different from judicial laws?

The New York Times

Omar's ethical code is endearing if often eccentric.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

He also put into effect a strict ethical code at the company.

The New York Times

None of this will change until we make significant changes to our ethical code.

Huffington Post

The study is conducted according to the European Commission Ethical Code [ 29].

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If emphasizing the spirit rather than the letter of ethical conduct, consider using alternatives like "moral compass" or "values system".

Common error

Don't assume everyone shares the same understanding of ethics. While "ethical code" refers to a defined set of rules, "personal ethics" are individual beliefs. Make sure to clarify if you're referring to a documented set of rules or individual principles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ethical code" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific set of rules or principles designed to govern conduct. As Ludwig AI suggests, it refers to a defined system to establish standards of proper behavior.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ethical code" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase referring to a set of principles guiding conduct. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across reputable sources. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts. While alternatives such as "code of ethics" or "moral principles" can be used, "ethical code" specifically emphasizes the formal, documented nature of these guidelines. When writing, be mindful of the distinction between a formal "ethical code" and individual "personal ethics" to ensure clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

code of ethics

Reverses the order of the words while maintaining the core meaning, focusing on a set of moral principles.

moral principles

Emphasizes the underlying principles rather than a formal code.

ethical guidelines

Replaces "code" with "guidelines", suggesting a less rigid set of rules.

professional standards

Focuses on standards of conduct within a specific profession.

conduct regulations

Highlights the regulatory aspect of behavior within a particular context.

rules of conduct

Replaces "ethical code" with a more general term for rules governing behavior.

moral compass

Uses a metaphor to describe internal guidance on ethical issues.

ethical framework

Suggests a structured system for ethical decision-making.

values system

Highlights the core values that guide ethical behavior.

principles of behavior

Focuses on the fundamental principles that govern how someone acts.

FAQs

What does "ethical code" mean?

An "ethical code" is a set of principles or guidelines designed to govern conduct and ensure responsible and moral behavior, often within a specific profession or organization.

How to use "ethical code" in a sentence?

You might say, "All employees must adhere to the company's "code of ethics"" or "The doctor violated the "Hippocratic oath", which is a type of "ethical code" for physicians".

What's the difference between "ethical code" and "moral compass"?

While both relate to ethical conduct, an "ethical code" is a formal, documented set of rules, whereas a "moral compass" refers to an individual's internal sense of right and wrong.

Are there alternatives to using the phrase "ethical code"?

Yes, depending on the context, you can use phrases like "moral principles", "ethical guidelines", or "professional standards".