ounce of integrity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ounce of integrity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the importance of having even a small amount of integrity in a situation or context. Example: "In a world filled with deceit, I would settle for just an ounce of integrity from our leaders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

the selfishness and the narcissistic behavior of Alex Rodriguez, the Yankees' organization could not muster one ounce of integrity and decide to not play A-Rod.

The New York Times - Sports

So, Trump clearly made it worth his physician's while to make a statement that would embarrass anyone with an ounce of integrity.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

What a shame that there couldn't have been more insight among them a single ounce of philosophic insight... of moral, aesthetic integrity among the lot of them... a single glimmer of individual awareness... a single grain of revolt from that great caterer's pot of schmaltz!

Vice

"She embodies every ounce of strength and nobility and dignity and integrity that that character should have," Hemsworth told W magazine during an interview about Theron's latest film, "Atomic Blonde".

Huffington Post

They're people of integrity.

The New York Times

Lack of integrity, for example.

The New Yorker

A man of integrity.

The New York Times

A matter of integrity?

The New York Times - Arts

A man of integrity and intense loyalty.

The New York Times

We have enough people of integrity.

The New Yorker

The issue of integrity is alive everywhere".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "ounce of integrity" to underscore the scarcity or absence of integrity in a situation, thereby emphasizing its importance.

Common error

Avoid using "ounce of integrity" too frequently, as it can lose its impact and sound cliché. Opt for direct descriptions of ethical behavior when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ounce of integrity" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a preposition or verb. It emphasizes a small quantity of a valuable abstract quality. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ounce of integrity" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that serves to emphasize the value and potential scarcity of integrity. While not overly common, its presence in news and media suggests a neutral register suitable for broad audiences. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is indeed valid. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "iota of honesty" or "shred of decency" to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Remember to use it judiciously to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

iota of honesty

Replaces integrity with honesty and uses "iota" to denote a small amount.

a shred of decency

Focuses on decency as a component of integrity, implying a bare minimum standard.

a hint of uprightness

Substitutes integrity with uprightness, suggesting a subtle display of moral character.

a touch of morality

Emphasizes the moral aspect of integrity, indicating a slight presence of ethical behavior.

a glimmer of principle

Replaces integrity with principle, highlighting adherence to a moral code, even in a small way.

smidgen of virtue

Virtue replaces integrity, and smidgen denotes a tiny amount.

vestige of probity

Probity is used instead of integrity, suggesting a trace or remnant of honesty and moral uprightness.

speck of honor

Focuses on honor as a component of integrity, indicating a tiny amount of honorable behavior.

fragment of ethics

Highlights the ethical dimension of integrity, suggesting a small piece of ethical conduct.

degree of righteousness

Replaces integrity with righteousness, implying a certain level of moral correctness.

FAQs

How can I use "ounce of integrity" in a sentence?

You can use "ounce of integrity" to express the need for even a small amount of honesty or moral principle in a given situation. For example, "In politics, even an "ounce of integrity" can make a significant difference."

What are some alternatives to saying "ounce of integrity"?

Alternatives include phrases like "iota of honesty", "shred of decency", or "hint of uprightness", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "ounce of integrity" or "bit of integrity"?

Both "ounce of integrity" and "bit of integrity" are grammatically correct. "Ounce of integrity" emphasizes the small quantity and potential rarity of integrity, while "bit of integrity" is a more general expression of needing some integrity.

When is it best to use the phrase "ounce of integrity"?

The phrase "ounce of integrity" is particularly effective when you want to highlight a lack of integrity or to express that even a small amount of integrity would be valuable or impactful in a particular context.