virtuous

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'virtuous' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is morally excellent, especially in terms of personal behavior. For example: "Maria was a virtuous woman who was known for her kind-heartedness and unwavering commitment to justice".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As well as less virtuous choices of beautifully made beef burgers, a pasta of the day, and a cake display full of yummy treats.

The Guardian - Travel

"Investments in hard and soft technologies are fuelling a virtuous cycle by supplying cities with yet more new talent and consolidating their place as hubs of innovation and connectivity.

The Guardian

It's a virtuous combination of well-qualified, skilled teachers motivated by clear, fair-minded and knowledgable leadership, collectively focused on students' wellbeing and all-round achievements.

The Guardian

Headteachers should aspire to set the climate in their schools to realise this virtuous combination, ensuring that the school's systems, organisation and processes are well considered and fit for purpose, as well as transparent and fair.

The Guardian

When he talked of the link between the growing wealth of the country and ordinary people's family finances, he nodded to the virtuous cycle that the Tories barely mention these days.

The Guardian - Opinion

The director general went to parliament yesterday to prove that he had kept a virtuous distance from decisions about what the BBC would broadcast about its late, disgraced star.

The Guardian - Opinion

She's seen as the prototype of the long-suffering wife and virtuous mother.

The Guardian

The reality is that the United Kingdom may not long survive unless virtuous principles are grasped and acted on by whatever government is elected as soon as the general election has taken place.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is making an unsaid promise that the happy and fertile private life on display will translate into a virtuous period in office.

The Guardian

A central notion of Stoicism, the philosophical doctrine with which Seneca is most closely identified, was the idea that being virtuous is the only truly beneficial thing, and the only thing that can make a person truly happy: wealth, like health, freedom and status, is a merely "indifferent thing".

The Guardian - Books

It seems to make sense that exercise helps, but perhaps that's a virtuous circle.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "virtuous" to describe someone who consistently acts in accordance with high moral standards. Consider the context to ensure it appropriately conveys the intended level of moral excellence.

Common error

Avoid using "virtuous" when you mean "effective" or "successful". "Virtuous" refers to moral qualities, not practical outcomes. For instance, a "virtuous strategy" might be morally sound but not necessarily successful.

Linguistic Context

The word "virtuous" primarily functions as an adjective. It is used to describe nouns, indicating that they possess moral excellence or righteousness. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "virtuous" is used to describe something or someone exhibiting high moral standards. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in English, noting that it is commonly found in News & Media, Formal & Business and Scientific contexts. When using "virtuous", ensure it aligns with the intended nuance of moral excellence, and avoid confusing it with terms like "effective". Related phrases include "morally upright", "righteous", and "ethical", each offering subtle differences in meaning. Remember, "virtuous" implies a consistent commitment to moral goodness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

morally upright

Emphasizes adherence to moral principles, focusing on integrity and ethical conduct.

of high moral character

Highlights the possession of admirable qualities, suggesting a consistent pattern of ethical behavior.

righteous

Implies moral correctness and just behavior, often with a religious or ethical connotation.

ethical

Focuses on conforming to accepted standards of conduct, emphasizing principles and values.

principled

Highlights the adherence to a strong set of beliefs and values, guiding actions and decisions.

honorable

Suggests integrity, dignity, and a commitment to upholding moral standards.

exemplary

Implies setting a good example through moral behavior, serving as a model for others.

noble

Conveys high moral qualities and ideals, often associated with selflessness and courage.

good

A simpler, more general term for moral excellence, lacking the intensity of "virtuous".

worthy

Suggests deserving respect and admiration due to moral qualities, implying merit.

FAQs

How can I use "virtuous" in a sentence?

You can use "virtuous" to describe a person, action, or principle that exhibits high moral standards. For example, "She was known for her "virtuous" behavior and unwavering commitment to helping others."

What are some alternatives to the word "virtuous"?

Alternatives to "virtuous" include "morally upright", "righteous", "ethical", and "principled". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say someone is "virtuous" if they only occasionally do good deeds?

While occasional good deeds are commendable, "virtuous" typically implies a consistent pattern of morally excellent behavior. Someone who only sometimes does good deeds might be considered kind or helpful, but not necessarily "virtuous".

What's the difference between "virtuous" and "moral"?

"Moral" refers to a general sense of right and wrong, while "virtuous" suggests a more active and consistent commitment to morally excellent behavior. A person can be moral without being particularly "virtuous", but a "virtuous" person is always moral.