moral paragon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moral paragon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is regarded as a model of virtue and ethical behavior. Example: "Many people view her as a moral paragon, always standing up for what is right and just."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

For the Moral Paragon WAS a holiday season ever so economically and environmentally fraught?

The New York Times

His jaw is a little too prominent, his body a little too pumped, his attitude a little too cocky for him to be trusted as an unassailable moral paragon.

The New York Times

"I'm a bad person!" he spits out, an exclamation that starts things off amusingly, since few would argue that the conniving Edmund of the original was a moral paragon.

The New York Times

And yet we made a classic of the book, and a moral paragon of its author — a man whose deepest desire and signature act was to turn his back on the rest of us.

The New Yorker

But his passing will also be keenly felt by people around the world who revered Mandela as one of history's last great statesmen, and a moral paragon comparable with Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi and Martin Luther King.

The Guardian

Or perhaps I'm letting my imagination run away with me, and there's absolutely no resemblance intended between Sammy's stalwart boss, R. G. — who makes up for a certain stiffness by being a moral paragon, "steady and honest and thoughtful" as well as "intellectually curious about virtually everything" — and the author's own father.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

If you really believe that, then Couple A isn't just blameless; they're moral paragons.

The New York Times

As Joan Didion writes in the current New York Review of Books, the Democrats have fallen into the same "fatal eddy" that the Republicans did in '98 -- buying into the Washington establishment's still completely unproven conviction that you can win elections running as moral paragons against Bill Clinton's sins.

The New York Times

Unlike Carlyle, Tolstoy did not valorize individuals standing out from the crowd as exemplary moral paragons who wield socially ordained positions of power.

SEP

"Hero," "moral giant," and "paragon" are among the titles bestowed on him in the Western media.

The New Yorker

We would not, however, hold him up as a paragon of moral integrity.' It may be, then, that a certain kind of integrity — moral integrity — should be defined in terms of moral purpose (perhaps along the lines laid out by Ashford or by Halfon) and another kind of integrity — personal integrity — defined in terms of other qualities adumbrated by theorists discussed previously.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "moral paragon", ensure the context clearly demonstrates the individual's consistent and widely recognized high ethical standards. Provide specific examples or qualities to support the assertion.

Common error

Avoid labeling someone a "moral paragon" if they exhibit even minor flaws or inconsistencies. This phrase implies an almost unattainable level of moral perfection, so reserve it for truly exceptional cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moral paragon" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or appositive. It identifies or describes a person considered to be an outstanding example of morality. Examples in Ludwig, like Nelson Mandela, illustrate this function.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "moral paragon" is a noun phrase used to describe an individual recognized for exceptional moral qualities. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and best suited for formal contexts, such as news reports or academic discussions. While examples are not abundant, occurring with uncommon frequency, contexts are primarily news, media and scientific, underscoring its use when assessing or portraying individuals held in high ethical regard. When using the phrase, ensure that there is appropriate justification, reflecting someone who exhibits consistent integrity and virtue. Consider synonyms like "ethical exemplar" or "virtuous role model" for similar, yet nuanced expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

paragon of ethical conduct

Stresses exemplary behavior and adherence to a code of ethics.

ethical exemplar

Focuses specifically on ethical conduct as the defining characteristic.

virtuous role model

Emphasizes the exemplary nature of the individual's virtue, making them a model for others.

epitome of morality

Suggests the person is a perfect example of moral principles.

beacon of virtue

Highlights the guiding and inspiring influence of the person's virtue.

embodiment of righteousness

Indicates that the person physically represents righteous behavior and values.

model of integrity

Highlights the person's wholeness and consistency in upholding moral principles.

pillar of morality

Suggests the person is a strong and unwavering supporter of moral values.

gold standard of ethics

Implies the person sets the highest benchmark for ethical behavior.

ideal of moral rectitude

Emphasizes the person's adherence to morally correct principles and behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "moral paragon" in a sentence?

You can use "moral paragon" to describe someone widely admired for their ethical behavior. For example: "Nelson Mandela is often regarded as a "moral paragon" for his unwavering commitment to justice and equality."

What are some alternatives to "moral paragon"?

Alternatives to "moral paragon" include "ethical exemplar", "virtuous role model", and "epitome of morality". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "moral paragon" in everyday conversation?

While grammatically correct, "moral paragon" is a somewhat formal and elevated term. It's more commonly found in news articles, academic writing, or discussions about historical figures than in casual conversation. However, it can be used as a figure of speech to highlight someone's morality in a comical way.

What qualities define a "moral paragon"?

A "moral paragon" is typically characterized by exceptional honesty, integrity, compassion, and a consistent commitment to ethical principles, even in the face of adversity. The individual’s virtues are easily and publicly recognizable.