held values

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "held values" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to beliefs or principles that someone maintains or upholds over time. Example: "Throughout her career, she has consistently held values of integrity and honesty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

I will remember her infectious laugh and her deeply held values.

The Guardian

"It is that I articulate the deepest held values of the American people".

The New Yorker

Instead, you'll reflect on your deepest assumptions and most strongly held values.

Harvard University

"This is the best way to protect our country, while upholding our deeply held values," Mr. Obama said.

The New York Times

One is intrinsically led change, where we focus on connecting with universally held values and changing societal narratives.

The Guardian

"I remember when I was a junior the teacher gave an assignment: write down your three most closely held values.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

I have deeply-held values about equality and justice with compassion and sympathy for those with fewer opportunities than myself.

The Guardian

Does Obama have strongly-held values -- or is he just a "typical" politician who does whatever he thinks will help him politically?

Huffington Post

The nation's budget, meanwhile, reveals that Timor-Leste's leaders have remained true to the long-held values that fueled the country's quest for independence.

Huffington Post

Most important, a real-time archive would be consistent with long-held values around advertising.

The New York Times

And ask yourself if how you're spending your time is aligned with your most deeply-held values.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing deeply personal or cultural values, provide context to ensure clarity and avoid misinterpretations. For example, specify whose values you are referring to and why they are significant.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "held values" are universally shared without evidence. Acknowledge the diversity of belief systems and avoid presenting specific values as inherently superior or universally accepted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "held values" functions as a noun phrase, where "held" modifies the noun "values". It describes the principles, beliefs, or standards that an individual, group, or organization considers important and consistently maintains. As confirmed by Ludwig, the construction is grammatically sound and frequently observed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "held values" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes principles, beliefs, or standards considered important. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and adaptability across diverse contexts. It is most commonly found in news and media, science and business, serving to express core beliefs that guide behavior and decisions. When using this phrase, be mindful of providing context and avoiding generalizations about universality of the "held values" being discussed. Alternatives such as "core principles" or "cherished beliefs" can add nuance depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental values

Emphasizes the basic and essential nature of the values.

core principles

Focuses on the fundamental and guiding nature of the principles.

deep-seated convictions

Highlights the firmness and entrenchment of the beliefs.

guiding beliefs

Focuses on how beliefs direct actions and decisions.

ingrained values

Emphasizes that the values are deeply embedded in one's character.

cherished beliefs

Emphasizes the emotional attachment and importance of the beliefs.

established principles

Highlights the long-standing nature of the principles.

moral standards

Refers to the principles of right and wrong that one adheres to.

personal ethics

Highlights the individual's moral code.

personal philosophy

Refers to the individual's overall worldview and guiding principles.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "held values" in a sentence?

You can use "held values" to describe the principles or beliefs that someone considers important. For example: "The company's decisions reflect its deeply "held values" regarding sustainability."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "held values"?

Alternatives include "cherished beliefs", "core principles", or "fundamental values". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "deeply held values"?

While "held values" implies importance, using "deeply held values" emphasizes the strength and significance of those beliefs. It's not always redundant, but consider if the added emphasis is necessary for your intended meaning.

How do "held values" differ from "stated values"?

"Held values" are the principles someone genuinely believes in and acts upon. "Stated values" are the principles someone claims to believe in, which may not always align with their actions. One is authentic and the other is declarative.