Word: probity

Associations

Probity means having strong moral principles and honesty. It is often used in discussions about trustworthiness and integrity.

• In a court of law, a witness's probity is crucial for the case's credibility. This shows that an honest person is needed for the truth to be known.
• The company's probity was questioned after the scandal. This sentence indicates that the company’s truthfulness is suspected after a wrongdoing.
• She is known for her probity in financial matters, always making honest decisions. Here we see that being trustworthy in handling money is highlighted.

The synonym "integrity" is similar, but integrity focuses more on the quality of being whole and undivided, while probity emphasizes honesty and adherence to ethical principles.

Substitution

Instead of "probity," you can use other words such as:

• Honesty: It emphasizes truthfulness but may not imply strict ethical standards.
• Integrity: Indicates a strong adherence to moral and ethical principles.
• Uprightness: Refers to being honest and morally right, but may not emphasize the ethical aspect as strongly as probity does.

Each of these words shifts the focus slightly, so it’s important to choose based on the context.

Deconstruction

The word "probity" comes from the Latin word "probitas," which means uprightness or honesty. The root "pro-" means "for" or "before," and "bitas" relates to moral quality. Understanding this breakdown helps you see that probity is about standing for moral truths and integrity.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a situation where probity is essential?
• How would you feel if someone you trusted lacked probity?
• Have you ever had to make a decision based on your own sense of probity? What happened?

Reflecting on these questions can help reinforce your understanding of the word "probity."