Which definition best describes the noun 'ethic' in a personal context?

• A. A belief or set of beliefs which affects one's behavior
• B. A person's moral principles or standards
• C. A system of rules for a sport
• D. A formal ceremony

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is that an ethic is about the moral principles or standards that guide how a person behaves. When we talk about someone’s ethic, we’re describing the internal rules they use to decide what’s right or wrong and to act accordingly. It’s about integrity, fairness, honesty, and consistency in actions, not just what someone believes in general.

For example, a person with a strong work ethic consistently shows diligence, reliability, and honesty in their tasks. Their ethic shapes their choices, even when no one is watching. This is different from simply having beliefs or from rules about a sport or a formal ceremony—the term here is specifically about personal moral standards that influence behavior.