ethic
n. · adj.-
1 a set of principles (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Academica system of beliefs about what is right and wrong that guides a person or group.
a set of moral principles or values that governs the conduct of an individual, group, or culture.
ExampleThe company's business ethic focuses on being honest with every customer.
ExampleThe prevailing social ethic of the era prioritised community stability over individual advancement, a fact reflected in the period's legislation.
UsageOften used in the singular to describe a specific philosophy, such as the 'Protestant ethic'.
PitfallHe has a strong ethic of work.He has a strong work ethic.When referring to a person's attitude toward work, 'work ethic' is a fixed compound noun.
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2 morality of an action (n.) C1 Advanced Formal Academicthe quality of being morally right or acceptable.
the moral quality or character of a specific action or behaviour.
ExampleThe committee questioned the ethic of using such aggressive sales tactics.
ExamplePhilosophers continue to debate the ethic of intervention in the internal affairs of sovereign states when human rights are at risk.
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3 relating to morals (adj.) C2 Proficiency Archaicrelating to beliefs about what is right and wrong.
pertaining to morals or the principles of morality.
ExampleThe old book discussed the ethic nature of man's soul.
ExampleIn his earlier treatises, the author uses 'ethic' as a descriptor for any action governed by the conscience rather than the law.
Teacher's tipIn modern English, the adjective form is almost always 'ethical'. Using 'ethic' as an adjective is rare and sounds very old-fashioned.
From Middle English etik, from Late Latin ēthicus, from Ancient Greek ἠθῐκός (ēthĭkós).
From Middle English etik, ethik, from Old French ethique, from Late Latin ēthica, from Ancient Greek ἠθική (ēthikḗ), from ἠθικός (ēthikós, “of or for morals, moral, expressing character”), from ἦθος (êthos, “character, moral nature”).