adj

ethical

EH-thih-kuhl

adj

Relating to principles of right and wrong conduct.

"The board discussed the ethical implications of the new policy."

Morally good or acceptable; in line with accepted standards of behaviour.

"It wouldn't be ethical to lie to the customers."

"The company prides itself on ethical sourcing of materials."

How to Use Ethical

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishConcerning what is morally right, or actually being morally right.

Common pairings

ethical behaviour ethical dilemma ethical sourcing ethically sound

more ethical comparative, ethicals plural, most ethical superlative

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The board discussed the _____ implications of the new policy.

From ethic + -al, ultimately from Ancient Greek êthos (\"character, moral nature\").

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