noun
Common
ethics
EHTH-ihks
Ethics (noun) means the branch of philosophy dealing with what is morally right and wrong. Example: “Our ethics class debated whether it is ever right to lie.”
noun
1
The branch of philosophy dealing with what is morally right and wrong.
"Our ethics class debated whether it is ever right to lie."
"Ethics asks us how we ought to treat other people."
"She's studying ethics at university."
2
The moral principles that govern a person's or group's behaviour.
"Journalists are expected to follow a clear set of ethics when reporting the news."
"Doctors must follow a strict code of medical ethics."
"The scandal raised questions about the firm's business ethics."
How to use ethics
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe study of right and wrong, or the moral rules a person or group actually follows.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
code of ethics
business ethics
medical ethics
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Word forms
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Our _____ class debated whether it is ever right to lie.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek ēthikḗ, from êthos (\"character, moral nature\"), via Late Latin ethica.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “ethics” mean?
The word “ethics” means the branch of philosophy dealing with what is morally right and wrong. In plain terms, the study of right and wrong, or the moral rules a person or group actually follows.
How do you pronounce “ethics”?
“Ethics” is pronounced EHTH-ihks (/ˈɛθ.ɪks/ in IPA).
How do you use “ethics” in a sentence?
Here is “ethics” used in a sentence: “She's studying ethics at university.”
What part of speech is “ethics”?
“Ethics” is a noun.
Where does the word “ethics” come from?
The word “ethics” comes from Ancient Greek. From Ancient Greek ēthikḗ, from êthos (\"character, moral nature\"), via Late Latin ethica.
Is “ethics” a common word?
“Ethics” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “ethics” have?
“Ethics” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the branch of philosophy dealing with what is morally right and wrong.
What is the difference between "ethics" and "morals"?
"Ethics" often refers to a system or study of what is right and wrong, and to the principles that govern a group's behaviour, such as professional ethics. "Morals" tend to refer to an individual's personal sense of right and wrong. The words overlap in practice, but ethics is more associated with shared or formal codes.
Is "ethics" singular or plural — do you say "ethics is" or "ethics are"?
When "ethics" refers to the branch of philosophy or a field of study, it takes a singular verb, as in "ethics is a fascinating subject." When it refers to a set of moral principles, it takes a plural verb, as in "her ethics are beyond question."
What is the difference between "ethics" and "ethic"?
"Ethics" usually means the study of right and wrong or a set of moral principles that govern behaviour. "An ethic" in the singular means a single guiding principle or belief, as in "a strong work ethic."
When should you use "ethics" instead of "morality"?
Use "ethics" when discussing a formal system or study of right and wrong, or the code that governs a profession or group. Use "morality" when discussing broader ideas of right and wrong conduct, often with a personal or societal dimension.
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