moral values

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moral values" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase in both formal and informal settings to refer to someone's personal beliefs about what is right and wrong. Example: "She was raised with strong moral values and continues to follow them today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Moral values are collapsing, too.

The New York Times

"It's become part of our moral values.

The New Yorker

"These are violations of our moral values".

The New York Times

Part of the Moral Values Festival.

The New York Times

I believed in your moral values.

The New York Times

But declining moral values are another matter.

The New York Times

The phrase "moral values" is open to interpretative license.

The New Yorker

"It is a violation of our moral values".

The New York Times

In this way, our moral values need not conflict.

The New York Times

She called it "a collapse of moral values".

The New York Times

"He was a great teacher and respected moral values".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "moral values", be specific about which values you are referring to, as the interpretation can vary widely among individuals and cultures. This avoids ambiguity and promotes clear communication.

Common error

Avoid assuming that everyone shares the same "moral values". Recognize that different individuals, cultures, and societies may prioritize different values, and be respectful of those differences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moral values" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, denoting the principles or beliefs that guide behavior. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "moral values" is a noun phrase denoting the principles and beliefs that guide behavior and judgment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used. Appearing most frequently in News & Media, the phrase serves to express and discuss societal norms, ethics, and personal conduct. While its register is neutral, it's crucial to use it with specificity and avoid assuming universal agreement on these values. Alternatives like "ethical principles" or "core beliefs" can provide more precise connotations in specific contexts. When writing, clarify which values are being referenced to enhance clarity and avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

value system

Describes the complete set of moral, ethical, and personal beliefs that guide someone's life.

moral code

Refers to a set of rules and principles that an individual or group adheres to in order to live a moral life.

ethical principles

Focuses on the codified standards of conduct recognized in a specific profession or group.

ethical standards

Emphasizes the benchmarks for morally acceptable behavior within a particular context.

principles of conduct

Underscores the behavioral standards expected in a given situation or context.

personal ethics

Highlights the individual's own moral beliefs and how they guide their behavior.

core beliefs

Refers to the foundational convictions that shape a person's or group's identity and outlook.

guiding principles

Highlights the fundamental rules or beliefs that steer decision-making and behavior.

code of ethics

Implies a formal set of rules outlining acceptable conduct, often within a professional setting.

moral compass

Suggests an internal sense of right and wrong that guides actions and judgments.

FAQs

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

You can use "moral values" to discuss principles that guide behavior, for example: "The company's decisions should reflect its core "moral values"." or "Education should instill strong "moral values" in children."

What are some alternative phrases for "moral values"?

Alternatives include "ethical principles", "core beliefs", or "guiding principles", depending on the specific context. Each carries slightly different connotations related to conduct and judgement.

Is it correct to say "a moral value" instead of "moral values"?

While grammatically acceptable, "moral values" is more common as it usually refers to a system or set of principles rather than a single, isolated value. However, you might say "honesty is a moral value" to emphasize a specific principle.

What's the difference between "moral values" and "ethical values"?

"Moral values" generally relate to personal beliefs about right and wrong, whereas "ethical values" often refer to standards of conduct within a professional or societal context. Ethics are frequently formalized rules, while morals are more personal and internally driven.