# scruples

/ˈskɹupəɫz/ (US) · /skɹˈuːpəlz/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scruples
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

small worries that something you want to do might be wrong. You have scruples when you hold back because you think an action is unfair or dishonest.

For teachers: moral doubts or hesitations that restrain a person from doing something considered wrong or unfair. Often appears in negative constructions to signal absence of moral restraint.

## Examples

- She has no scruples about telling small lies.
- The salesman has no scruples and pushes elderly customers to buy plans they do not need.
- A lawyer with scruples refuses cases that require deceiving the court, even when the fees would secure the firm's future for years.

## Synonyms

qualm

## Usage notes

- Almost always plural; commonly used with 'have' or 'have no' plus 'about'.

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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.