# moral high ground

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/moral-high-ground
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A position or point of view which is ethically superior or more reputable, in comparison to others which are under consideration.

## Examples

- He claims the moral high ground in this argument.
- Even though she was angry, she kept the moral high ground by refusing to insult him back.
- By choosing to forgive his opponent publicly, he occupied the moral high ground and effectively silenced his harshest critics.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.