Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
uphold moral principles
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "uphold moral principles" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the importance of maintaining ethical standards or values in various contexts, such as personal behavior, business practices, or societal norms. Example: "As a leader, it is essential to uphold moral principles to inspire trust and integrity within the organization."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
Second, abusive leaders who sought to make amends for their behavior also possessed moral courage to face their past wrongdoings and a strong willpower to uphold moral principles (both of which we also measured at the beginning of each study).
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
For centuries, the Church has consistently favored social notions that are "preferential" to the impoverished, and it has always upheld strict personal moral principles — its progressive wing notwithstanding.
News & Media
This commendable decision by St. Joseph's and the hospital network that oversees it, Catholic Healthcare West, upholds important legal and moral principles.
News & Media
Either we follow the moral principles of justice, upheld by all faith communities, and share equitably the resources of the world, or we continue to consume excessively, resulting in ever more conflict and environmental destruction.
Academia
Not moral principles, but epistemic first principles.
News & Media
But the legal and moral principles?
News & Media
When we abandon efforts to uphold human dignity, we forfeit the essential meaning of being human, and when we waver in our commitment to the idea of human rights, we abandon our moral principles.
News & Media
"He has rather strange moral principles.
News & Media
I know Viktor has moral principles".
News & Media
And moral principles tell us about moral properties.
Academia
Should the state instruct private TV channels to uphold "moral values"?
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When discussing organizational ethics, use "uphold moral principles" to emphasize a proactive stance in maintaining ethical standards within the organization. It conveys a stronger commitment than simply 'following' principles.
Common error
Avoid using "uphold moral principles" to describe merely acknowledging ethical standards. "Uphold" implies active defense and consistent demonstration of those principles, not just passive agreement.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "uphold moral principles" functions as a directive, urging or emphasizing the importance of maintaining and defending a set of ethical values. It is often used in contexts where ethical behavior is paramount, aligning with Ludwig's indication of correctness and usability.
Frequent in
News & Media
33%
Academia
33%
Wiki
7%
Less common in
Science
7%
Formal & Business
7%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "uphold moral principles" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies a commitment to defending and maintaining ethical standards. Ludwig confirms its validity, showing its use in diverse contexts. Although relatively uncommon, the phrase is authoritative and has frequent usage in contexts such as News & Media and Academia. To reinforce ethical conduct in organizations, one should actively demonstrate and safeguard these principles. Alternative phrases include "defend ethical standards" and "maintain moral integrity".
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
defend ethical standards
Replaces "uphold" with "defend" and "moral principles" with "ethical standards", emphasizing protection of established ethics.
maintain moral integrity
Substitutes "uphold" with "maintain" and reframes "moral principles" as "moral integrity", highlighting consistency in moral conduct.
adhere to ethical guidelines
Replaces "uphold" with "adhere to" and "moral principles" with "ethical guidelines", focusing on compliance with established ethics.
stand by moral values
Uses "stand by" instead of "uphold", which suggests a strong commitment and defense of "moral values".
champion ethical beliefs
Employs "champion" to indicate active support and promotion of "ethical beliefs", adding a proactive dimension.
preserve moral code
Replaces "uphold" with "preserve", emphasizing the act of maintaining a "moral code" over time.
safeguard moral convictions
Uses "safeguard" to convey protecting "moral convictions" from being compromised.
respect ethical tenets
Emphasizes respecting and following ethical tenets, which are fundamental beliefs or principles.
practice ethical behavior
Focuses on consistently demonstrating ethical actions rather than just supporting principles.
act with moral rectitude
Replaces "uphold moral principles" with a more formal expression, indicating acting with moral correctness and integrity.
FAQs
What does it mean to "uphold moral principles"?
To "uphold moral principles" means to actively support, defend, and practice ethical standards consistently in one's behavior and decisions. It implies a commitment to acting in accordance with these principles, even when it's challenging.
How can individuals "uphold moral principles" in their daily lives?
Individuals can "uphold moral principles" by making ethical choices, acting with integrity, and advocating for fairness and justice in their interactions with others. This includes being honest, respectful, and responsible in their personal and professional lives.
What are some alternatives to saying "uphold moral principles"?
You can use alternatives like "defend ethical standards", "maintain moral integrity", or "adhere to ethical guidelines" depending on the context.
Why is it important for organizations to "uphold moral principles"?
It is vital for organizations to "uphold moral principles" because it fosters trust, enhances reputation, and creates a positive work environment. When organizations prioritize ethics, they are more likely to attract and retain talent, build strong relationships with stakeholders, and achieve long-term success.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested