ethical lapse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ethical lapse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone fails to adhere to ethical standards or principles. Example: "The company's recent decision to cut corners on safety regulations was a significant ethical lapse that could have serious consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Similarly, Mr. Rangel blames his staff for an ethical lapse that led the House ethics committee to admonish him last week for taking a Caribbean freebie.

The New York Times

How could I teach a course on journalistic ethics, they suggested, if I appeared so relaxed about Hari's gross ethical lapse?

The Guardian

For each ethical lapse, Jack invents a slippery rationalization.

The New York Times

Signing on as a "consultant" heightens the ethical lapse.

The New York Times - Magazine

That's a pretty major ethical lapse in itself, Tom.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

(Note to editors: the statute of limitations on this ethical lapse has expired).

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Of course they overlooked ethical lapses.

The New York Times

He has "zero tolerance" for ethical lapses, he said.

The New York Times

Could other types of fakery also lead to ethical lapses?

The New York Times

Judge Smith's record also contains significant ethical lapses.

The New York Times

I have some concern about their ethical lapses".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ethical lapse" to describe a single instance of unethical behavior. For ongoing or systemic issues, consider terms like 'ethical violations' or 'culture of corruption'.

Common error

Avoid using "ethical lapse" to describe unintentional errors or oversights. An "ethical lapse" implies a conscious decision to disregard ethical principles, not simply an accident or misunderstanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ethical lapse" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a specific instance or occurrence of unethical behavior or a failure to adhere to moral principles. Ludwig AI confirms this usage in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ethical lapse" is a noun phrase used to describe a failure to adhere to ethical principles. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media, to denote violations of ethical standards. When using this phrase, be clear about the specific ethical principles that were violated, and avoid using it to describe unintentional errors. Alternatives such as "ethical violation" or "moral failing" can be used depending on the specific context. The frequency of "ethical lapse" is considered common meaning that the sentence is adequate for different writings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ethical violation

Directly points to an act that contravenes established ethical rules or guidelines.

ethical breach

Synonymous, yet it carries a slightly stronger connotation of a broken agreement or standard.

breach of ethics

Emphasizes the violation of a formal code of conduct, often within a professional context.

failure in ethics

Highlights the deficiency or lack of adherence to ethical standards.

moral transgression

Focuses specifically on the violation of moral principles, suggesting a more serious breach than a general lapse.

moral failing

Emphasizes a personal deficiency in moral character or judgment.

integrity violation

Focuses on a violation of honesty and strong moral principles.

professional misconduct

Specifically refers to improper or unethical behavior in a professional setting.

code of conduct violation

Highlights a specific breach of a pre-defined set of rules or principles.

moral slip-up

Suggests a minor or unintentional deviation from moral standards.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "ethical lapse"?

Alternatives to "ethical lapse" include "ethical violation", "moral failing", or "breach of ethics", depending on the context and the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How does an "ethical lapse" differ from a simple mistake?

An "ethical lapse" implies a knowing deviation from accepted ethical standards, whereas a mistake is an unintentional error. The former involves a conscious choice, while the latter does not.

In what context is it appropriate to use the term "ethical lapse"?

Use "ethical lapse" when referring to a situation where someone knowingly acted against established ethical principles, whether in a professional, personal, or societal context. For example, a politician accepting a bribe would constitute an "ethical lapse".

What are the potential consequences of an "ethical lapse"?

The consequences of an "ethical lapse" can range from damage to reputation and loss of trust to legal penalties and professional sanctions. The severity depends on the nature and impact of the lapse.