conscionable
Adjective: 1. Governed by or in accordance with conscience; acceptable to one's sense of right and wrong. Describes an action, decision, or person that is morally right, fair, and justifiable according to one's own ethical principles. 2. Characterized by a sense of fairness and scrupulousness. Implies a careful consideration of what is morally correct.
The word "conscionable" is a formal adjective used to describe something that aligns with a well-informed conscience. It is often used in legal, ethical, or philosophical contexts to discuss actions or decisions that are not only legal but also morally defensible. It is the direct opposite of "unconscionable."
- The judge ruled that the contract terms were conscionable and fair to both parties.
- After much reflection, she made the only conscionable choice she could, even though it was difficult.
- A conscionable employer pays fair wages and provides safe working conditions.
- In a comparative/superlative sense: While rare, the forms "more conscionable" and "most conscionable" can be used to compare degrees of ethical acceptability.
- Of the two proposals, the first was deemed the more conscionable option.
- Used to modify abstract nouns: It frequently modifies words like "action," "decision," "choice," "behavior," and "agreement."
- They sought a conscionable resolution to the dispute.
- Conscience (n): The inner sense of what is right or wrong in one's conduct or motives.
- Conscientious (adj): Wishing to do one's work or duty well and thoroughly; guided by conscience. (Note: This is more common than "conscionable" and often describes a person's character.)
- Unconscionable (adj): Not right or reasonable; shockingly unfair or unjust. This is the much more frequently used antonym.
- Ethical
- Just
- Righteous
- Principled
- Scrupulous
- Fair
- Unconscionable
- Unethical
- Unjust
- Unscrupulous
"Conscionable" is a relatively rare word in modern English. In many contexts, synonyms like "ethical" or "just" are more commonly used. Its primary function is often to serve as the logical opposite of the far more common "unconscionable."
- acceptable to your conscience