How to Say "morals" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “morals” is “valores” — use 'valores' when referring to the fundamental principles or beliefs that guide a person's or a society's sense of right and wrong, often seen as positive ideals.
English → Spanish
valores
vah-LOH-rehsbaˈlo.ɾes
nounB1general
Use 'valores' when referring to the fundamental principles or beliefs that guide a person's or a society's sense of right and wrong, often seen as positive ideals.
Examples
Para nosotros, el respeto y la honestidad son valores fundamentales.
For us, respect and honesty are fundamental values.
Es importante enseñar buenos valores a los niños desde pequeños.
It is important to teach good values to children from a young age.
Always Plural for Ethics
When talking about moral beliefs or principles, use 'valores' (plural). The singular 'valor' usually means 'courage' or a single numerical value.
ética
nounB1general
Use 'ética' when discussing a person's personal standards of behavior, professional conduct, or a system of moral principles related to a specific field or activity.
Examples
Su ética de trabajo es admirable.
His work ethic is admirable.
Values vs. Ethics
Learners often confuse 'valores' and 'ética'. Remember that 'valores' refers to broader, shared principles (like respect, honesty), while 'ética' is more about specific standards of conduct, especially in a professional context.
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