Conscience: meaning, definitions and examples

in moral decision-making

Conscience is a person's moral sense of right and wrong, viewed as acting as a guide to one's behavior. It is often described as a voice within that tells us whether our actions are morally right or wrong.

ethics, morality, principles

Examples of usage

• My conscience tells me that cheating on the exam is wrong.

• She couldn't live with herself after stealing from the charity, as her conscience was troubled.

• The decision to donate to the orphanage was made based on his conscience.

• His conscience wouldn't allow him to walk away without helping the injured man.
• Following your conscience is important in making ethical decisions.