high moral principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "high moral principle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing ethical standards or values that are considered to be of great importance or integrity. Example: "Her decision to donate a significant portion of her earnings to charity reflects her commitment to high moral principles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

In the lead role, Philip Cairns plays John Proctor more like an everyday neighbour than a man of high moral principle.

The Guardian

Warburg was a man of letters and, for the most part, high moral principle, in stark contrast to the reckless moneymen who more recently have pushed banking to the precipice.

The Economist

Since the destructive force of the atom gave mankind the power to blow up the world, this military dictum has been elevated to high moral principle and guaranteed by treaty.

The Economist

It shatters the complacent amity of the Bartlet White House, giving room to all the tensions that flourish around a real Oval Office and that had been smothered in the show's glow of second-term fellowship, banter and high moral principle.

The New York Times - Arts

Rothbard condemned the "Northern war against slavery", saying it was inspired by "fanatical" religious faith and characterized by "a cheerful willingness to uproot institutions, to commit mayhem and mass murder, to plunder and loot and destroy, all in the name of high moral principle".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"America's always been the country of hope and of high moral principles and ideals.

The New York Times

My kids are good team players and have high moral principles.

The New York Times

Mann was the one player in all professional baseball who was the most closely associated with clean sport, amateur ideals & high moral principles.

The New Yorker

But I suppose the author thought she must give her heroine some desirable thing — high moral principles, since she was not beautiful.

The New Yorker

When the law is unjust and unfairly applied as it long was against her that is a betrayal of the high moral principles she has always espoused.Elsewhere, Bangladesh must accommodate fleeing Rohingyas.

The Economist

If, for example, you are disgusted by the spectacle of a Congress paralyzed by irreconcilable notions about the role of government; by base self-interests rationalized as high moral principles; by incendiary rhetoric and, in some quarters, by fanatical intolerance, you may take some cold comfort from knowing that they were all once much worse.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "high moral principle" to describe a conscious and consistent commitment to ethical behavior, not just isolated acts of goodness.

Common error

Avoid using "high moral principle" to justify actions that are ethically questionable, even if they are intended to achieve a positive outcome. True adherence requires consistency, not convenient exceptions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "high moral principle" typically functions as a noun modifier, describing a person, action, or concept that is guided by strong ethical considerations. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "high moral principle" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a strong commitment to ethical standards. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and suitable for use in written English. While not extremely common, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times, The Economist, and The Guardian. It is most frequently used in news and media, as well as in academic contexts. If you want to avoid the usage of "high moral principle" you can use alternatives such as "strong ethical code", "unwavering integrity", or "noble moral values".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong ethical code

Emphasizes the strictness and adherence to a set of moral rules.

unwavering integrity

Highlights the consistency and firmness of one's moral character.

noble moral values

Focuses on the admirable and lofty nature of the moral standards.

exalted ethical standards

Stresses the superior and elevated quality of the ethical benchmarks.

lofty principles

Shortens the original phrase while retaining the idea of elevated ideals.

strict moral compass

Uses a metaphor to convey the guidance and direction provided by strong morals.

firm moral ground

Suggests a solid and unshakeable foundation of moral beliefs.

sound moral judgment

Highlights the quality of making ethically correct decisions.

ethical fortitude

Emphasizes the courage and strength to act according to one's morals.

moral rectitude

Focuses on the correctness and righteousness of one's moral standing.

FAQs

How can I use "high moral principle" in a sentence?

You can use "high moral principle" to describe someone's unwavering commitment to ethical behavior. For example, "The judge's decision reflected her commitment to "high moral principle", even when it was unpopular".

What are some alternatives to "high moral principle"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "strong ethical code", "unwavering integrity", or "noble moral values".

Is it redundant to say "high moral principle"?

While "principle" often implies a moral dimension, adding "high moral" emphasizes the elevated and uncompromising nature of the ethical standard being referenced.

How does "high moral principle" differ from "moral compass"?

"High moral principle" refers to a specific ethical standard or belief, while "moral compass" ("strict moral compass") is a metaphor for the internal guidance that helps someone navigate ethical dilemmas.