conscience
//ˈkɒnʃəns//
Translation
conscience
Definition
Conscience is an inner sense of right and wrong that guides a person's thoughts and actions, often leading to feelings of guilt or pride. It acts as a moral compass, influencing decisions based on personal ethics or societal norms. This internal voice can be shaped by upbringing, culture, or religion, and it often prompts self-reflection when one's behavior conflicts with their values. In everyday use, having a 'clear conscience' means feeling at peace with one's actions, while a 'guilty conscience' indicates remorse for wrongdoing.
Example
“She couldn't sleep after lying, because her conscience bothered her.”
“He followed his conscience and returned the lost wallet to its owner.”
“A guilty conscience often leads people to confess their mistakes.”
“The politician claimed he acted with a clear conscience on the issue.”
“My conscience told me it was wrong to cheat on the exam.”
“She made a donation to charity to ease her conscience.”
“His conscience pricked him when he saw the homeless man shivering.”
“They had a crisis of conscience over whether to report the crime.”
“A clear conscience is a sign of living honestly.”
“The soldier's conscience haunted him for years after the war.”
Synonyms