morality
/məˈræləti/ (bre, ipa) · /məˈræləti/ (ame, ipa) · /mə-ˈra-lə-tē mȯ-/ (ame, mw)
morality — noun
- moralitysingular
- moralitiesplural
1. The collection of beliefs and principles that a person or group uses to decide w
The collection of beliefs and principles that a person or group uses to decide what behaviour is right or wrong.
Darius's strong sense of morality stopped him from taking money that was not his.
possessive + sense of morality
The elderly nun taught morality to village children by telling stories about kindness and forgiveness.
collocation: teach + morality
Joaquín believed honesty was the most important part of morality in his business deals.
Ancient texts often link morality with advice about how to live a good life.
Hui's parents taught her a simple morality: treat others as you wish to be treated.
- ethics
Similar but more formal; often refers to professional or institutional codes rather than personal beliefs
- values
Emphasises what someone considers important rather than a complete system of right and wrong
- principles
Refers to specific rules or standards rather than a whole system of beliefs
- immorality
The opposite system or behaviour, actively rejecting moral standards
文法句型
determiner + sense + of + morality
morality + is + [description]
the + moralities + of + [different groups] (rare)
用法筆記
Typically uncountable. The plural form 'moralities' is occasionally used to refer to the distinct moral systems of different groups or traditions. Not used with the indefinite article 'a' in standard usage.
常見錯誤
2. How right or acceptable an action, decision, or situation is judged to be, based
How right or acceptable an action, decision, or situation is judged to be, based on what people consider good behaviour.
The morality of the government's decision was questioned by human rights groups around the world.
the morality of [noun]
Some people doubt the morality of using animals to test new medicines for human diseases.
Pedro questioned the morality of firing an ill worker after only two weeks.
A well-known journalist questioned the morality of using secret cameras to film people.
Yuna was praised for the morality of returning the lost wallet to its owner.
- integrity
Focuses on honesty and consistency of character; more personal and narrower than morality
- virtue
Emphasises positive moral qualities; has a more approving, often religious tone
- righteousness
Stronger and more absolute; often used in religious contexts to mean morally blameless
- immorality
The quality of being morally wrong or unacceptable
文法句型
the + morality + of + [noun/gerund]
question/doubt/debate + the + morality + of + [something]
用法筆記
Always uncountable. Frequently followed by 'of + noun/gerund' to identify the specific action or situation being judged. The subject is commonly a decision, action, policy, or practice.