# moral low ground

idiom

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

## Meaning

A position or point of view which is unethical or less reputable, in comparison to others which are under consideration.

## Examples

- He took the moral low ground by lying to win the argument.
- By mocking his opponent's personal life instead of discussing the policy, he clearly occupied the moral low ground.
- The politician chose to occupy the moral low ground, sacrificing his integrity for a temporary advantage in the polls.

## Origin

Modelled on moral high ground.

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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.