moral rigor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moral rigor" is correct and usable in written English.
You would use it to describe the quality of having strong moral values and a strict adherence to principles. For example: "He held himself to a high standard of moral rigor, refusing to engage in activities that he felt were not in line with his values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"I don't suffer from the same moral rigor," he said.

The New Yorker

By tending to camouflage Marie Antoinette's tragic flaws, Fraser somewhat diminishes the nobility of the queen's spiritual journey and the moral rigor of her frequently remarkable book.

The New York Times - Books

Known for their clever plotting, the clarity of their writing and Father Dowling's perspicacity and moral rigor, the series grew to more than two dozen books after the character was introduced in "Her Death of Cold" in 1977.

The New York Times - Arts

To tell the truth, I feel that, in the interest of moral rigor, it is necessary for us to go a step further, which is why I would like to propose a supplementary constitutional amendment.

The New Yorker

On a stage framed by curtains of a Valentine's Day red, against an equally red map of the 48 continental states and what seemed like a life-sized Statue of Liberty, the conservative stars paced and preached a gospel of radical self-reliance and self-reckoning moral rigor.

The Guardian

But with the women's backless tops and see-through skirts and the men's see-through shirts and what seemed like Hawaiian leis, the stern moral rigor of the music and the ghostly aura of the dancing were undercut by chi-chi.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The diehards will say, impossible, with all the moral certitude and rigor that diehards possess.

Huffington Post

Ms. Lehman said she hoped to publish books that are "superbly written, have moral clarity, maybe journalistic rigor".

The New York Times - Books

We have tremendous confidence in his intellectual rigor, his moral compass and his ability to make sound, thoughtful, careful decisions.

The New Yorker

Formal rigor and moral rectitude are less prevalent in art today — judging, at least, by "Looking Back," an entertaining selection of works at White Columns.

The New York Times - Arts

For now, baguette revivalists -- spurred in part by Mr. Kaplan's notion of bread as the epitome of both French history and culture -- draw from him moral strength and culinary rigor.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "moral rigor" to convey a strong commitment to ethical principles and a strict adherence to a moral code. This phrase adds weight to arguments about ethical behavior and decision-making.

Common error

Avoid presenting "moral rigor" as inflexibility or an unwillingness to consider different perspectives. Emphasize the underlying principles and thoughtful application of ethical standards, not just a rigid adherence to rules without context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moral rigor" functions as a noun phrase, where "moral" modifies the noun "rigor". It describes a strict and unwavering adherence to moral principles. Ludwig indicates its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "moral rigor" is a phrase that signifies a strict and unwavering commitment to moral principles. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and The New Yorker, predominantly within the News & Media and Scientific contexts. To use it effectively, ensure you're conveying a sense of strong ethical commitment without implying inflexibility. Be mindful of distinguishing "moral rigor" from "moral rigidity", as rigor emphasizes a thoughtful and consistent application of ethics, while rigidity suggests an unyielding adherence to rules, regardless of context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ethical strictness

Emphasizes the adherence to a rigid set of ethical guidelines.

principled severity

Highlights the stern application of principles.

moral inflexibility

Focuses on the unyielding nature of one's moral code.

strict moral code

Implies a clearly defined and rigorously followed set of moral rules.

uncompromising ethics

Stresses the firm and unwavering nature of one's ethical stance.

ethical exactitude

Highlights the precision and accuracy in adhering to ethical standards.

rigorous ethical standards

Focuses on the demanding and thorough nature of the ethical benchmarks.

moral stringency

Emphasizes the strictness and severity of moral requirements.

stringent ethical principles

Highlights the demanding and inflexible character of the ethical foundations.

severe moral discipline

Focuses on the strict self-control and adherence to moral rules.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "moral rigor" in a sentence?

To use "moral rigor" effectively, show how a character or institution consistently applies high ethical standards in its actions and decisions. For instance, "The judge applied the law with moral rigor, ensuring fairness and impartiality."

What are some alternatives to saying "moral rigor"?

Alternatives include "ethical strictness", "principled severity", or "uncompromising ethics", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "moral rigor" the same as "moral rigidity"?

"Moral rigor" implies a strong and consistent application of ethics, while "moral rigidity" suggests an inflexible adherence to rules without considering context. Rigor involves thoughtful application, while rigidity suggests inflexibility.

What's the difference between "moral rigor" and "ethical conviction"?

"Moral rigor" emphasizes the strict application of ethical principles. "Ethical conviction", on the other hand, focuses on the strength and depth of one's belief in those principles. While related, rigor highlights action, while conviction highlights belief.