moralistic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moralistic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a viewpoint or attitude that is concerned with morality or the promotion of moral standards, often in a judgmental way. Example: "His moralistic tone in the debate made it difficult for others to engage in a constructive discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The overbearing moralistic tone was explicit in Charles Kingsley's The Water-Babies, a masterpiece in its bizarre way, but one of the most unpleasant works of fiction I have ever read.

The Guardian - Books

Like Gladstone, Mr Blair favours a highly moralistic style of foreign policy.

The Economist

Pushed by Gordon Brown, Britain's chancellor of the exchequer, the new rules have a clear moralistic streak.

The Economist

Dutch political attitudes are often described as a seesaw between de dominee en de koopman, or "the preacher and the merchant": at times the Netherlands adopts a moralistic tone towards the rest of the world, other times its interests are purely businesslike.

The Economist

Far from prompting second thoughts about fiscal policy, this has provoked a moralistic manhunt.In some ways, Mr Depardieu's decision was unremarkable.

The Economist

A thorough review by bankers and regulators of incentives in their industry (perhaps followed by tougher capital requirements for risky pay deals) should be enough to see off moralistic threats to set pay limits.In this section All you need is cash No time to waste Where's Angela?

The Economist

Other countries' business cultures have more moralistic attitudes towards bankruptcy.

The Economist

However, to distinguish himself from his predecessor, the patrician, grandly moralistic Richard von Weizsäcker, is one thing.

The Economist

Unholy row The perils of political Europe ReprintsLouis Michel, the Belgian foreign minister and a prime exponent of his country's moralistic diplomacy, is also enmeshed by the law.

The Economist

Their wholehearted pragmatism also means that they either have little time for the party's more moralistic policies, or give them a gentler cast.This independence can cause occasional heartburn to the party power-brokers.

The Economist

A pious Muslim with a moralistic bent, Mr Davutoglu has been among the most influential foreign ministers in the history of the Turkish republic.His approach rests on two pillars.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "moralistic", consider whether a more nuanced term like "ethical" or "principled" might be more appropriate to avoid sounding judgmental.

Common error

Avoid using "moralistic" in contexts where a neutral description of moral values is needed; instead, opt for terms like "ethical" or "moral" to maintain objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "moralistic" primarily functions to describe something characterized by a narrow and often judgmental concern for morals. Ludwig examples show it modifying nouns like "tone", "style", and "policies" to indicate an overemphasis or rigid adherence to moral principles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "moralistic" is a commonly used adjective to describe something characterized by a narrow and often judgmental concern for morals. As shown by Ludwig, it often carries a negative connotation, implying an excessive or inappropriate focus on moral judgments. The best practice is to ensure its usage is fitting, and alternative terms like "ethical" or "principled" may be more appropriate in neutral contexts. With a strong presence in News & Media and Science, the term's frequent usage underscores its relevance in discussions involving ethical standards. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moralizing

Highlights the act of commenting on moral issues.

judgmental

Focuses on the act of forming opinions or judgments, particularly critical ones.

self-righteous

Highlights a sense of moral superiority.

sanctimonious

Emphasizes a display of affected piety.

preachy

Indicates a tendency to give moral advice in an annoying way.

didactic

Focuses on teaching or instructing, often with a moral message.

puritanical

Emphasizes strict moral or religious principles.

ethical

Related to moral principles.

righteous

Morally right or justifiable.

principled

Having strong moral principles.

FAQs

How can I use "moralistic" in a sentence?

You can use "moralistic" to describe someone or something that is characterized by a narrow and conventional moral attitude. For example, "The film had a "moralistic tone"."

What is a synonym for "moralistic"?

Synonyms for "moralistic" include "judgmental", "self-righteous", and "sanctimonious". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "moral" and "moralistic"?

"Moral" refers to principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong. "Moralistic", on the other hand, implies imposing one's own moral standards on others, often in a judgmental way.

When is it appropriate to use the word "moralistic"?

It is appropriate to use "moralistic" when you want to criticize someone or something for being excessively concerned with morals, especially in a way that is judgmental or preachy.