noble stance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "noble stance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a position or viewpoint that is honorable, principled, or morally admirable. Example: "The activist took a noble stance against injustice, advocating for the rights of the marginalized."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

With 21-inch wheels in the rear (20 in the front), the Vélite is a Buick concept with a noble stance, powerful and poised at once.

The New York Times

Silence is so often synonymous with fear, and yet while my father's dignified silence was a noble stance to take, it also disallowed us, his loved ones, from having the opportunity to say so much more.

The Guardian

Continental has gone through bankruptcy twice (in 1983 and 1990), as has US Airways (2002 and 2004).However, on November 29th AMR abandoned its noble stance and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, saying that this had become necessary for the firm "to achieve a cost and debt structure that is industry competitive and thereby assure its long-term viability".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

This is a noble and idealistic stance, of course, but it overlooks a human frailty that is undeniably real: curiosity.

The New York Times

Vladimir Malakhov, noble in his stance, partnered Susan Jaffe in the second act adagio from "Swan Lake": idealist meets his ideal.

The New York Times - Arts

Some critics have insisted that's the way "Dunkirk" must be seen ― a noble but elitist stance, given many people cannot afford the costlier IMAX ticket or do not live near theaters showing the movie in that format. .

Huffington Post

Mr. Wlodek described her stance as "very noble," adding: "She did not see it as a violation of any laws.

The New York Times

But clarity also comes from the explicit physical characterizations of each performer, from the straight-backed class-conscious stances of the noble Olivia (Alexey Dadonov) and her suitor, the Count Orsino (Vladimir Vdovichenkov), to the disjointed Cubist angularity of the revelers Sir Toby Belch Alexander Feklistovv) and Sir Andrew Aguecheek Dmitry Dyuzhevv).

The New York Times

There's something almost noble in the LS's upright stance and forthright engineering.

The New York Times

You got a problem with that?" This would at least be an ethical stance, if not a noble one.

The New York Times - Arts

Obama's stance on global nuclear disarmament is a noble one in principle.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "noble stance" to convey a sense of moral high ground or principled conviction. This phrase works well when describing a person or entity making a decision based on strong ethical beliefs.

Common error

Avoid using "noble stance" to describe everyday situations or decisions that lack significant moral weight. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing sound pompous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "noble stance" functions as a noun phrase, where 'noble' modifies 'stance'. It typically describes a position or attitude characterized by high moral principles and integrity. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes honorable and principled positions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "noble stance" is a noun phrase used to describe a position or attitude marked by high moral principles. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable, albeit relatively uncommon. It most frequently appears in news and media contexts to express admiration for ethically driven decisions. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations where the moral dimension is significant to avoid sounding pretentious. Consider alternatives like "honorable position" or "principled viewpoint" to fine-tune the specific nuance. Finally, the phrase should be used when expressing respect for moral high ground or principled conviction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

honorable position

Replaces "stance" with a synonym, focusing on the respectability of the position.

principled viewpoint

Substitutes "noble" with "principled" and "stance" with "viewpoint", highlighting the adherence to moral principles.

dignified attitude

Emphasizes the stateliness and respect associated with the attitude.

elevated perspective

Focuses on the superior moral quality of the perspective.

upright posture

Uses a more literal interpretation of "stance", suggesting moral and physical straightness.

virtuous standpoint

Highlights the moral correctness of the standpoint.

lofty principle

Replaces "stance" with "principle", emphasizing the high moral standard.

moral high ground

Idiomatic expression for holding a morally superior position.

honorable bearing

Focuses on the dignified and respectful manner in which someone carries themselves.

ethical approach

Emphasizes the ethical considerations in the approach taken.

FAQs

How can I use "noble stance" in a sentence?

You can use "noble stance" to describe someone's principled position on an issue, for example: "The politician took a "noble stance" against corruption, refusing to compromise his values."

What are some alternatives to "noble stance"?

Alternatives to "noble stance" include "honorable position", "principled viewpoint", or "dignified attitude", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "noble stance" too formal for everyday conversation?

While "noble stance" is generally suitable for formal writing, it might sound overly serious in casual conversation. Consider using a less formal alternative like "taking a stand" or "sticking to their guns" in informal settings.

What's the difference between "noble stance" and "moral high ground"?

"Noble stance" describes a principled position, while "moral high ground" implies a sense of superiority over others. While related, "moral high ground" can sometimes carry a negative connotation of being self-righteous.