# morally

/ˈmɔɹəɫi/ (US) · /mˈɒɹəli/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. regarding right and wrong

adverb · CEFR B2

in a way that relates to what is right or wrong.

For teachers: in a manner that relates to principles of right and wrong or ethical standards.

- He felt that the company's decision was morally wrong even if it was legal.
- The philosopher argued that we are morally obligated to assist those in extreme poverty, regardless of their geographical distance from us.

Usage: Often used to modify adjectives like 'wrong', 'right', 'obligated', or 'bankrupt'.

### 2. practically certain

adverb · CEFR C1 · Formal

used to say that something is almost definitely true or will happen.

For teachers: to all intents and purposes; used to indicate that a situation is practically or virtually certain.

- I am morally certain that she will win the election.
- Given the overwhelming evidence presented by the prosecution, the jury felt morally certain of the defendant's involvement in the conspiracy.

Usage: Commonly collocates with 'certain' or 'sure'.

Teaching tip: This sense is less common in everyday conversation and is typically found in legal or formal academic contexts.

## Examples

- He felt morally obligated to tell the truth.
- The company was legally allowed to close the factory, but many felt it was morally wrong to leave so many people without work.
- The philosopher argued that while the law provides a framework for order, individuals must still act morally according to their own conscience when those laws are unjust.

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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.