deontological
/ˌdiːɒn.təˈlɒdʒ.ɪ.kəl/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
Related to a moral theory that judges actions by rules, duties, or rights, not by results. A deontological view says some actions are right or wrong on principle.
- She took a deontological view of honesty.
- The judge used a deontological approach to ethics.
- Their argument was deontological, not outcome-based.
Adinary Nuance
Deontological is more specific than ethical or moral. It points to duty, rules, and rights, while utilitarian focuses on results and practical benefit. Writers use it in philosophy, law, and serious academic discussion, not in everyday speech.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- phi nghĩa vụ
- Spanish
- deontológico
- Chinese
- 道义论的
- Japanese
- 義務論の
- Korean
- 의무론의
Etymology
Deontological comes from deontology, a term built from Greek deon, meaning “duty,” and -logy, meaning “study.” It entered English in the 19th century with moral philosophy.
Common phrases
deontological ethicsdeontological theorya deontological approachdeontological reasoning
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is deontological a common everyday word?
- No. It is mostly used in philosophy, law, and academic writing.
- What is the difference between deontological and utilitarian?
- Deontological means duty- or rule-based. Utilitarian means based on results or the greatest benefit.
- Can I use deontological in IELTS Writing?
- Yes, if you are discussing ethics, law, or philosophy clearly.
- What noun goes with deontological?
- Common nouns are ethics, theory, approach, and reasoning.