propriety, righteousness, integrity, and sense of shame; traditional moral code
Meanings
1 sense · 5 examplesnoun
propriety, righteousness, integrity, and sense of shame; the four fundamental virtues
formalThe term '礼义廉耻' originates from the classic text Guanzi (《管子》). It refers to the four cardinal virtues in traditional Confucian ethics, considered the foundational moral standards for governing oneself and society.
Throughout his career as an official, he always adhered to propriety, righteousness, integrity, and a sense of shame.
The healthy development of a society is inseparable from the maintenance of these fundamental virtues.
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In traditional education, these four virtues were the core content taught to the younger generation.
He lost all sense of propriety and shame, and was therefore despised by everyone.
The phrase 'Propriety, righteousness, integrity, and shame are the four cords that bind a nation' was an important governing philosophy in ancient times.