# ethic

/ˈɛθɪk/ (US) · /ˈɛθɪk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ethic
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. a set of principles

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

a system of beliefs about what is right and wrong that guides a person or group.

For teachers: a set of moral principles or values that governs the conduct of an individual, group, or culture.

- The company's business ethic focuses on being honest with every customer.
- The prevailing social ethic of the era prioritised community stability over individual advancement, a fact reflected in the period's legislation.

Usage: Often used in the singular to describe a specific philosophy, such as the 'Protestant ethic'.

### 2. morality of an action

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Academic

the quality of being morally right or acceptable.

For teachers: the moral quality or character of a specific action or behaviour.

- The committee questioned the ethic of using such aggressive sales tactics.
- Philosophers continue to debate the ethic of intervention in the internal affairs of sovereign states when human rights are at risk.

### 3. relating to morals

adjective · CEFR C2 · Archaic

relating to beliefs about what is right and wrong.

For teachers: pertaining to morals or the principles of morality.

- The old book discussed the ethic nature of man's soul.
- In his earlier treatises, the author uses 'ethic' as a descriptor for any action governed by the conscience rather than the law.

Teaching tip: In modern English, the adjective form is almost always 'ethical'. Using 'ethic' as an adjective is rare and sounds very old-fashioned.

## Examples

- She has a very strong work ethic.
- The company's business ethic focuses on transparency and fair treatment for all employees.
- While the individual's personal ethic may vary, the professional code requires a commitment to client confidentiality above all other considerations.

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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.