it was honorable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was honorable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an action or behavior that is morally right or deserving of respect. Example: "Despite the challenges, he chose to stand up for what he believed in, and it was honorable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

What that has to do with bringing honor to The Times escapes me, unless it was honorable that he was allowed to publish another column after the first one.

The New York Times

To me, it was honorable to resign".

The New York Times - Sports

It was first reported that Alexis left the military with a general discharge; in fact, it was honorable.

The New Yorker

It was honorable work, he explained, especially when compared with his job on the Belgrade police force.

The New Yorker

Just back down on your decision.' But he spoke to me in a way that at the time I felt was blustering but now I see it was honorable, considering the situation.

The New Yorker

It was honorable work.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"And I think it's honorable".

The New York Times - Books

It is honorable to be a counterrevolutionary today".

The New York Times

"It is honorable," he wrote, "it is amusing, and, with superior judgment, it is profitable".

Encyclopedia Britannica

"I'm interested in medical applications principally because it's honorable and compelling.

The New York Times - Tech

As an idea, it's honorable and true; most of all, it proves aesthetically inspiring for Anderson.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the subject of the sentence is clearly identified, so the reason for the action being considered honorable is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "it was honorable" to describe actions that are simply expected or ordinary. The phrase carries a significant weight and should be reserved for situations where a person demonstrates exceptional integrity or moral courage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was honorable" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing a past action, decision, or behavior as morally upright and deserving of respect. As Ludwig AI reports, this phrase is appropriate for expressing admiration for ethical conduct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

34%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was honorable" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe actions or decisions that are morally commendable and deserving of respect. According to Ludwig AI, it is suitable for expressing admiration for ethical conduct. While the phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts, it can be used in various settings to highlight acts of integrity and selflessness. Remember to use this phrase judiciously, reserving it for situations that genuinely reflect high moral standards.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was commendable

Focuses on the praiseworthy nature of the action or behavior.

it was admirable

Highlights the aspect of inspiring admiration and respect.

it was laudable

Emphasizes the deserving of praise and recognition.

it was righteous

Indicates moral correctness and adherence to ethical principles.

it was decent

Suggests adherence to acceptable standards of behavior.

it was upright

Implies honesty and integrity in action.

it was virtuous

Highlights the presence of high moral standards.

it was noble

Emphasizes the selflessness and high-mindedness of the action.

it was ethical

Focuses on the adherence to moral principles and professional standards.

it was principled

Highlights the adherence to a strong set of moral beliefs.

FAQs

What does "it was honorable" mean?

The phrase "it was honorable" describes an action, decision, or behavior that is morally right, deserving of respect, and often involves courage or integrity.

What can I say instead of "it was honorable"?

You can use alternatives like "it was commendable", "it was admirable", or "it was noble" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "it was honorable"?

Use "it was honorable" when describing actions that demonstrate a commitment to strong moral principles, selflessness, or a willingness to stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.

Is there a difference between saying "it was honorable" and "it is honorable"?

Yes, "it was honorable" refers to something that happened in the past, while "it is honorable" describes something that is currently considered morally right or respectable. The tense affects the timing of the action or quality.