ENGLISH
REFERENCE

morals

n. C / U
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈmɔɹəɫz// UK //mˈɒɹəlz// morals

n. the ideas you have about what is right and wrong behavior. These rules help you decide how to act toward other people.

n. the principles or standards of behavior concerning what is right and wrong. Often refers to a collective or personal code of conduct rather than legal requirements.


SIMPLE

He has strong morals and always tells the truth.

CONTEXTUAL

The story is designed to teach children good morals through the actions of its characters.

COMPLEX

The debate over the new law centered on whether the state should legislate private morals or focus strictly on public safety and order.

Synonyms
Usage

Usually plural when referring to a person's beliefs; the singular 'moral' typically refers to the lesson of a story.

Pitfall

He has a good morals.He has good morals.When referring to a person's character or principles, the word is plural and does not take the indefinite article 'a'.

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