paragon of integrity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'paragon of integrity' is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, you could use it to describe someone who is known for their unwavering honesty: "He is a paragon of integrity, always doing the right thing no matter the cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Because he's such a paragon of integrity, he turns it down.

The New York Times

The charges are sharply at odds with the firm's jealously guarded self-image as a paragon of integrity.

The Economist

Mr. Lowe said that Newsday was a paragon of integrity when he was hired as a proof boy in the composing room in 1964.

The New York Times

His sacking of the acting attorney general, Sally Yates, has overtones of Richard Nixon: except, of course, that Trump's presidency will make Nixon look like a paragon of integrity by the time it is finally over.

The Guardian - Opinion

A paragon of integrity ("You the only one I know tryin' to do right by people," a neighbor tells him), Easy is drawn nonetheless to the nihilistic cynicism of his enterprising gangster friend, Raymond Mouse Alexanderer, "a serious man who had killing in his blood".

The New York Times - Books

By setting himself up as a paragon of integrity (Remember the primary ad campaign featuring an image of Mr. Forrester clutching a red broom and vowing to sweep Trenton clean of corruption? ) Mr. Forrester has opened himself up to greater scrutiny, putting him in the arguably unfair, but undeniably real, position of having to meet a higher ethical standard than that of his opponent.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

For most of the 20th century, Wisconsin was a showcase of clean government, and most of its politicians were paragons of integrity.

The New York Times

The heroes and heroines of Rand's books are paragons of integrity – trusting them to use their wealth and power to do great things is a no-brainer.

The Guardian - Opinion

Only one of these three can point with certainty at the part of his face he calls a chin, and he – Woods – somehow makes the other two look like paragons of integrity.

Independent

But this is no Errol Morris production; the camera does not glare harshly at these men, and rarely is it suggested that they're anything other than neutral paragons of integrity and patriotism.

The New York Times - Arts

The persons we see are not paragons of integrity devoted only to serving the commonweal by making the soundest decisions possible.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "epitome of honesty" or "model of uprightness" for variety in your writing, depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "paragon of integrity" in casual conversations or informal writing. This phrase carries a significant weight and can sound overly formal or unnatural in everyday contexts. Opt for simpler terms like "honest" or "upright" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "paragon of integrity" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a predicate nominative or an appositive to describe someone who embodies exceptional moral qualities. Ludwig examples show its use in formal descriptions and character assessments.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "paragon of integrity" is a noun phrase used to describe someone who exemplifies exceptional moral character. It's considered grammatically correct and, according to Ludwig AI, suitable for written English. While its frequency is common, it is most appropriate for formal contexts like news reporting and academic writing. Key alternatives include "epitome of honesty" and "model of uprightness". When using this phrase, be mindful of its formality and avoid overuse in casual settings. The examples Ludwig provides demonstrate its use in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Economist, confirming its place in formal and professional discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

epitome of honesty

Replaces "integrity" with "honesty", focusing specifically on truthfulness.

model of uprightness

Substitutes "integrity" with "uprightness", emphasizing moral virtue.

embodiment of virtue

Uses "embodiment" instead of "paragon", highlighting the person as a living example.

pillar of morality

Emphasizes the steadfast and supportive nature of the person's moral character.

beacon of ethics

Uses metaphorical language to portray the person as a guiding light for ethical behavior.

exemplar of probity

Replaces common terms with more formal and less frequently used vocabulary.

personification of rectitude

Highlights the individual as a direct representation of moral correctness.

gold standard of ethics

Implies a benchmark or high level to which all others are compared.

image of moral excellence

Focuses on how the person is perceived, an ideal to emulate.

a true man/woman of principle

Simplifies the structure while keeping the focus on strong moral principles.

FAQs

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

You can use "paragon of integrity" to describe someone who is considered a perfect example of moral excellence. For instance, "The CEO was hailed as a "paragon of integrity" for his unwavering commitment to ethical business practices".

What are some alternatives to "paragon of integrity"?

Alternatives include "epitome of honesty", "model of uprightness", or "embodiment of virtue". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "paragon of integrity" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "paragon of integrity" is best suited for formal contexts. In informal settings, consider using simpler terms like "honest" or "upright" to avoid sounding overly formal.

What distinguishes "paragon of integrity" from "person of integrity"?

"Paragon of integrity" suggests an almost flawless example, setting a high standard. "Person of integrity" simply implies that someone possesses integrity, without necessarily being the best possible example. Using "paragon of integrity" means praising someone as an extraordinarily honorable person.