required to be virtuous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "required to be virtuous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing moral obligations or expectations regarding behavior. Example: "In many cultures, individuals are often required to be virtuous in their actions to maintain social harmony."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Unlike those who hold first tier offices the people of the second tier cannot be counted on or be required to be virtuous, a fact that leaves John somewhat contemptuous of them (Poli VI pro. n103).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

You don't need to be virtuous to enjoy them for what they are.

The New York Times

They were required to be demure, virtuous and sexless, placed on a pedestal so high that their voices could never be heard.

The Washington Post

Echoing a point by Alasdair MacIntyre, Code argues that an adequate understanding of what it is to be virtuous requires placing virtuous selves in the unity of a narrative.

SEP

Summer is no time to be virtuous.

The New York Times - Books

Just self-controlled enough to be virtuous.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Not for health reasons, nor to be virtuous.

The New York Times

Although we become virtuous by acting as the virtuous person does, a close reading of Aristotle's text shows that, on his account, it is not enough to be virtuous that we act in certain ways.

Yale University

Even if happiness is virtuous activity of the soul, in some cases these goods are needed to be virtuous — for example, one must have money to be generous.

SEP

Humans were designed for virtue and so they ought to be virtuous.

SEP

We don't have to be virtuous to recognize these things.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing societal roles or positions that inherently demand high ethical standards, use "required to be virtuous" to underscore the expectation of moral integrity. For instance, "Leaders are often required to be virtuous to maintain public trust".

Common error

Avoid using "required to be virtuous" when describing personal preferences or situations where moral virtue is subjective, as it can sound overly prescriptive. Consider using "encouraged to be virtuous" or "beneficial to be virtuous" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "required to be virtuous" functions as a descriptor, indicating an obligation or expectation for someone or something to possess and exhibit virtuous qualities. It is often used in contexts where ethical conduct is paramount, as seen in the Ludwig examples relating to leadership and societal roles. Ludwig AI suggests it's correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "required to be virtuous" signifies an expectation or obligation to adhere to high moral standards. While grammatically correct, its frequency is rare. Ludwig identifies it as correct and usable in English, predominantly appearing in science and news contexts. It's important to use this phrase judiciously, especially when describing situations where moral virtue is a clear and established expectation. When aiming for broader or less prescriptive language, consider alternatives like ""expected to be virtuous"" or ""obligated to be moral"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obligated to be moral

Replaces "required" with "obligated" and "virtuous" with "moral", focusing on moral duty.

expected to act virtuously

Shifts from a strict requirement to an expectation of virtuous conduct.

duty-bound to be ethical

Emphasizes a sense of duty and replaces "virtuous" with "ethical".

morally compelled to be righteous

Highlights moral compulsion and uses "righteous" as a synonym for "virtuous".

under an obligation to be good

Focuses on the obligation to be "good", a simpler way of expressing virtue.

bound to act with virtue

Emphasizes being bound by a commitment to acting virtuously.

supposed to exemplify virtuous behavior

Shifts to the idea of exemplifying virtue through behavior, rather than just being virtuous.

expected to demonstrate moral integrity

Replaces "virtuous" with "moral integrity", highlighting the demonstration of morals.

called to a life of virtue

Implies a calling or higher purpose toward living virtuously.

enjoined to uphold virtuous principles

Uses formal language to suggest a directive to uphold virtuous principles.

FAQs

How can I use "required to be virtuous" in a sentence?

You can use "required to be virtuous" to describe situations where someone is expected or obligated to act morally, such as "Leaders are often required to be virtuous to maintain public trust."

What's a more common way to say "required to be virtuous"?

Alternatives include "expected to be virtuous", "obligated to be moral", or "duty bound to be ethical" depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to use the word "virtuous"? What are some simpler options?

No, you can use simpler terms like "good", "ethical", or "moral" depending on the desired nuance. For example, "required to be good" or "required to be ethical".

What does it mean when someone is "required to be virtuous"?

It means that the person is expected or obligated to adhere to high moral standards and act in a morally upright manner. This expectation can stem from their role, position, or societal norms.