noble virtues

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "noble virtues" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing qualities or traits that are considered morally good or admirable. For example: "Her actions were guided by noble virtues, inspiring those around her." Alternative expressions include "noble qualities" and "exalted virtues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But hats off twice to Ms. Reno for understanding that these two noble virtues are not equal.

The New York Times

Even as they prepare for their high-tech journey, they embody old-fashioned, noble virtues: bravery, curiosity, strength, tenderness.

The New Yorker

It also stood for noble virtues like honour, duty, progressiveness, efficiency, selflessness and, yes, tolerance; modern Germans would do well to emulate these.

The Economist

The government's ironically titled justice and security bill, currently winging its way through parliament, delivers neither of the noble virtues in its label.

The Guardian - Books

This is pre-sententious Capra, when he had no time to preach the noble virtues of the common man because he was too busy following him into bedrooms and bars.

The New Yorker

He said "Art of Submission" — which follows fightsploitation's basic creative template but without what he sees as the more exploitive "blood and porn" aspects — has a chance to spread the gospel of mixed martial arts' more noble virtues.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

But anonymity is not of itself a noble virtue; its power can also be abused.

The Guardian - Opinion

We believe that loyalty is a fine and noble virtue, and we serve notice that we have initiated a modest plan to encourage its spread.

The New Yorker

"Nothing has done more to retard the progress of the human race than the exaltation of submission into a high and noble virtue," he wrote.

The Guardian

Mann emphasizes the characters' ambiguous blend of outsized evil and noble virtue, eliciting grand, tragic overtones from Charles Schnee's adaptation of the orotund novel by Niven Busch (included in the box).

The New Yorker

Yes, loyalty to your loved ones and your people is a noble virtue.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "noble virtues" to emphasize the high moral standards or principles that guide a person's or entity's actions. For example, when describing a historical figure known for their selflessness and integrity, you might say: "Her life was a testament to noble virtues such as compassion and justice."

Common error

Avoid using "noble virtues" to describe actions that are merely expedient or self-serving. The phrase implies a genuine commitment to high moral principles, not just a facade of good intentions. For example, don't say: "His sudden act of charity was driven by noble virtues," if it's clear he was just seeking publicity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "noble virtues" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically used to characterize individuals, actions, or principles that are considered morally excellent or highly commendable. Ludwig AI confirms the validity of this use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "noble virtues" is a descriptive phrase used to highlight and commend morally excellent qualities. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and effectively conveys admiration or respect. While categorized as formal, it appears primarily in news and media sources, suggesting a neutral register. For alternative phrasing, consider "noble principles" or "admirable qualities" depending on the specific context. Remember to use this phrase when genuinely describing high moral standards and avoid misattributing it to actions that lack true integrity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

noble principles

Replaces "virtues" with "principles", focusing on moral guidelines rather than inherent qualities.

lofty virtues

Substitutes "noble" with "lofty", emphasizing the elevated or superior nature of the virtues.

admirable qualities

Replaces the more formal "virtues" with "qualities", making the phrase slightly less elevated.

exalted virtues

Uses "exalted" instead of "noble", suggesting a higher degree of honor or reverence.

honorable traits

Replaces both words, using simpler synonyms that convey a similar meaning.

moral strengths

Replaces "virtues" with "strengths", focusing on the empowering aspect of moral qualities.

ethical merits

Replaces "noble" with "ethical", emphasizing adherence to moral codes and standards.

virtuous attributes

Replaces "virtues" with "attributes", making the phrase less focused on moral excellence.

high-minded morals

This alternative has a slightly different emphasis, placing importance on a high standard of moral thought and behavior.

commendable ethics

Replaces "virtues" with "ethics", stressing a system of moral principles and conduct.

FAQs

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

You can use "noble virtues" to describe qualities like courage, honesty, and compassion. For example: "The hero's actions were driven by "noble virtues", inspiring hope in the community."

What are some alternatives to "noble virtues"?

Depending on the context, you could use "noble principles", "admirable qualities", or "moral strengths" as alternatives to "noble virtues".

Is "noble virtues" formal or informal language?

"Noble virtues" is generally considered formal language, suitable for academic writing, news reports, or speeches. In casual conversation, simpler terms like "good qualities" might be more appropriate.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "noble virtues"?

Use "noble virtues" when you want to emphasize the particularly high moral character or principles guiding someone's actions or decisions. The phrase carries a sense of respect and admiration.