ethical propriety

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ethical propriety" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the appropriateness of actions or decisions in relation to ethical standards or principles. Example: "The committee emphasized the importance of ethical propriety in all business dealings to maintain trust and integrity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

But to Trump – demanding of absolute loyalty, ignorant of constitutional checks and unconcerned with ethical propriety – the recusal was a personal betrayal.

The Guardian

When I asked Ms. Basso who at the university had reviewed the questionnaire for scientific validity and ethical propriety, she said: "We have a relationship with Highmark.

The New York Times

The experts calling for a moratorium on human germline editing assert that more research must be done before we can judge the ethical propriety of genetically modifying children.

The Guardian

Although dogs don't really understand language in the way that humans do, I'm worried about the ethical propriety of our misleading ploy.

The New York Times - Magazine

The movie is fascinating, beautiful, and intentionally enraging: a brilliant return to form from a director whose work, in the past, has joined modernist game-playing to ethical propriety and modesty.

The New Yorker

To start, there's a hint of ethical propriety: it feels righteous to contemplate tightening the belt, cutting the fat, putting the house in order (especially when it's someone else's belt, fat and house).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Mr. Collins's case has also raised ethical questions about the propriety of a member of Congress, sitting on the House committee with jurisdiction over health care companies, being not only the largest shareholder of an Australian drug maker, but also a member of its board, good-government advocates said.

The New York Times

As the criminal case against Mr. Lindh was under way, Ms. Radack said in her lawsuit, she discovered that memorandums she had written raising ethical concerns about the propriety of the interrogation had been "purged" from the office file and apparently not turned over to a criminal court as required.

The New York Times

New babies in any family, while no doubt positively valued, will not usually be judged under Capacity (unless it be negative), Normality (positive/negative according to the usuality of the behaviour), Tenacity (positive/negative according to 'appropriateness' of inclination/psychological disposition), or Propriety (positive/negative according to ethical codes).

Functional Linguistics

To ensure the propriety standards of evaluation, Ethical clearance was obtained from Jimma University.

Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation

The proposal has been reviewed and got ethical clearance by the Ethical Review Board of Jimma University to ensure the propriety standards of the evaluation.

Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience. While precise, "ethical propriety" can sound formal. In less formal settings, consider simpler alternatives like "moral correctness" or "ethical appropriateness".

Common error

Avoid using "ethical propriety" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound pretentious. Opt for simpler terms like "being ethical" or "doing the right thing" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ethical propriety" functions as a noun phrase, where "ethical" modifies "propriety", indicating a specific kind of propriety rooted in ethical principles. It refers to the quality of being morally correct and adhering to established standards of conduct. Ludwig confirms its use in describing appropriate and morally sound behavior.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ethical propriety" is a noun phrase used to describe behavior that adheres to ethical standards and established norms. It's grammatically correct and most commonly found in news, media, and scientific contexts. Ludwig confirms the phrase's usability, although it can sound formal in casual settings. Consider alternatives like "ethical appropriateness" or "moral correctness" for less formal contexts. Remember to prioritize both ethical principles and societal expectations when using or interpreting this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moral conduct

Simplifies the phrase to refer to the way someone behaves based on moral principles.

ethical appropriateness

Replaces "propriety" with a more common synonym, while retaining the ethical dimension.

moral correctness

Focuses more on the moral aspect, replacing "ethical" and "propriety" with simpler terms.

ethical rectitude

Uses a more formal and less common synonym for "correctness" or "righteousness", increasing formality.

ethical soundness

Focuses on the validity and reliability of the ethical principles involved.

moral integrity

Shifts the focus to the quality of moral character, emphasizing honesty and strong moral principles.

moral uprightness

Emphasizes honesty and good moral character as a standard for behavior.

moral legitimacy

Highlights the acceptability and lawfulness of actions from a moral perspective.

ethical justifiability

Emphasizes the ability to defend actions as morally right or reasonable.

principled behavior

Concentrates on actions that are consistent with moral principles, rather than specific ethical rules.

FAQs

What does "ethical propriety" mean?

It refers to behavior or actions that adhere to accepted ethical standards and principles of conduct, suggesting both moral correctness and appropriateness in a given context.

How can I use "ethical propriety" in a sentence?

You might say, "The company's commitment to "ethical propriety" ensures that all business dealings are conducted with integrity and fairness."

What's the difference between "ethical propriety" and "moral integrity"?

"Ethical propriety" emphasizes adherence to rules and norms, while "moral integrity" focuses on the internal consistency and strength of one's moral character.

Are there simpler alternatives to "ethical propriety"?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "ethical appropriateness", "moral correctness", or simply "being ethical", depending on the context.