Skip to main content

scruple — a feeling of doubt or hesitation with regard to the morality or propriety of a course of action

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: a feeling of doubt or hesitation with regard to the morality or propriety of a course of action

Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈskruːpəl/

Example Sentences

  • The corrupt politician had no scruples about taking bribes from lobbyists.
  • My grandmother would never scruple to tell you exactly what she thinks of your outfit.
  • Despite his financial difficulties, he had moral scruples about stealing.

scruple

NOUN

[/ˈskruːpəl/]

a feeling of doubt or hesitation with regard to the morality or propriety of a course of action

He felt a scruple about taking the extra coin from the till.
💡 Concept

He felt a scruple about taking the extra coin from the till.

The couple's supple grip loosens when scruples surface
🎵 Rhyme

The couple's supple grip loosens when scruples surface

Got the picture? Now let's practice.

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ˈskruːpəl/
🇬🇧 UK/ˈskruːpəl/

🌳Etymology

Rootscrup-
Suffix--le

Origin

From Latin 'scrupulus' meaning a small sharp stone or a unit of weight, later used metaphorically to describe a small doubt or hesitation that troubles the conscience, as if a pebble in one's shoe.

Breakdown

scrupul- (from Latin scrupulus, small sharp stone) + -e (noun suffix) = scruple

🎵Rhyme

uple
couple
supple

🔗Collocations

moral scruples
without scruples
have scruples about
religious scruples
scruple to do

📝Examples

“The corrupt politician had no scruples about taking bribes from lobbyists.”

😄 Fun example

“My grandmother would never scruple to tell you exactly what she thinks of your outfit.”

“Despite his financial difficulties, he had moral scruples about stealing.”

😄 Fun example

“She didn't scruple to eat the last piece of cake, even though it was meant for her brother.”

📚Related Words

Want to master 27,000+ words?

Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.