moral

word

/ˈmɔɹəɫ/
MOR-uhl
/mˈɒɹəl/
MO-ruhl

Definition

Related to ideas of right and wrong behavior, or to principles about how people should act. As a noun, it can also mean the lesson or message of a story.

Usage & Nuances

Common as an adjective before nouns: 'moral values', 'moral duty', 'moral problem'. 'Moral' often refers to ethics in a serious or philosophical way; 'good' is broader and more everyday. As a noun, it is common in 'the moral of the story'. Do not confuse it with 'morale', which means confidence or team spirit.

Example Sentences

She believes that helping others is a moral duty.

basic

The story has a simple moral.

basic

They had a moral argument about lying.

basic

For me, it's not just a legal issue — it's a moral one.

natural

My grandma always ends her stories with a moral.

natural

He thinks money matters more than moral values.

natural