Word
ethically
Phoneticseth·i·cal·ly, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈɛθɪkəɫi/
UK/ˈɛθɪkli/
Adverb of manner
Definition
adv. in a way that is morally right or follows the rules of good behavior. You use this when talking about whether an action is fair or honest.
adv. in a manner that relates to moral principles or the branch of knowledge dealing with these. Often used to modify verbs related to business, research, or personal conduct.
Examples
“The company promises to source its coffee ethically.”
“Investors are increasingly looking for companies that treat their workers ethically and minimize their environmental impact.”
“The committee debated whether the data had been ethically obtained, given that the participants were not fully informed of the study's long-term goals.”
Examples
simple
“The company promises to source its coffee ethically.”
contextual
“Investors are increasingly looking for companies that treat their workers ethically and minimize their environmental impact.”
complex
“The committee debated whether the data had been ethically obtained, given that the participants were not fully informed of the study's long-term goals.”
Usage
Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.
Pitfall
He behaved ethical in the meeting.
He behaved ethically in the meeting.
Learners often use the adjective 'ethical' where the adverb 'ethically' is required to modify a verb.
Real-World Examples
“The news business has not always behaved as ethically as it should and trust levels are at an all-time low and falling across the developed world.” “As brands gain access to more customer data, they are responsible for using that information ethically.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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