nounnounadjective

el moral

moral · morale

Conjunto de valores y normas que ayudan a distinguir entre lo que está bien y lo que está mal en la conducta de las personas.

Definition & meaning

The word moral can function as both a noun and an adjective in Spanish, with meanings that overlap closely with its English counterpart.

As a noun (feminine):

  1. The set of customs, beliefs, values, and norms of a person or a social group that function as a guide for deciding right from wrong.
  2. The lesson or practical teaching derived from a story, fable, or experience.

As an adjective (feminine/masculine):

  1. Relating to the actions or character of people regarding whether they are good or bad.
  2. Relating to the inner spirit or mental state of a person, often used in the context of "moral support" (apoyo moral) or "high spirits" (la moral alta).

Grammar & Word origin

  • Grammar: It is a noun or an adjective. As an adjective, it is invariant in gender (it does not change between masculine and feminine).
  • Word origin: It comes from the Latin moralis, derived from mos, moris (custom, habit, or manner).

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • Ética (referring to the system of principles)
  • Integridad (referring to the quality of character)
  • Lección (referring to the lesson of a story)
  • Ánimo (referring to mental state/spirits)

Antonyms:

  • Inmoral (against moral principles)
  • Amoral (lacking a sense of morality)
  • Desmoralización (referring to a loss of spirits or confidence)

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Examples

La decisión que tomó fue moral y justa.adjective

The decision he made was moral and fair.

La moral del equipo es muy alta hoy.noun

The team's morale is very high today.

¿Crees que existe una obligación moral de ayudar?adjective

Do you believe there is a moral obligation to help?

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