scruples

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Word: Scruples

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: Scruples are feelings of doubt or hesitation that arise when you are not sure if something you are thinking about doing is right or wrong. They come from your moral or ethical beliefs and guide your decisions and actions.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "scruples" to describe a person's moral concerns or doubts about a decision.
• It is often used in negative constructions (e.g., "He had no scruples"), indicating a lack of moral concern.

Example Sentences:

1. Basic Usage: "She had scruples about lying to her friend, even if it was to protect her feelings."
2. Advanced Usage: "Despite his ambitions, he could not pursue the deal without feeling a twinge of scruples regarding its fairness."

Word Variants:

• Scrupulous (adjective): This describes someone who is very careful about doing what is morally right.

  • Example: "The scrupulous accountant double-checked all the numbers to avoid any mistakes."

• Scrupulously (adverb): In a manner that shows great attention to detail and moral correctness.

  • Example: "She scrupulously followed the rules to ensure everything was done properly."

Different Meaning:

In a broader sense, "scruples" can also refer to small doubts or reservations about something, not necessarily tied to ethics. - Example: "He had scruples about joining the team because he was unsure of his skills."

Synonyms:

• Doubts
• Hesitations
• Qualms
• Conscience (when referring to moral concerns)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly include "scruples," you might encounter phrases like: - "Without scruples": Meaning to act without any moral hesitation. - Example: "He pursued the promotion without scruples, stepping over anyone in his way."

Academic

Noun

1. motivation deriving logically from ethical or moral principles that govern a person's thoughts and actions

Synonyms

• conscience
• moral sense
• sense of right and wrong