scruple - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
scruple Word Meanings
- a feeling of doubt or hesitation regarding morality
- a small amount or quantity
- to hesitate due to ethics or conscience
scruple Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
scruple Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈskruːpəl/
US
/ˈskruːpəl/
scruple Word Etymology
scruple = scrupus (Latin, meaning 'small stone') + -le (diminutive); Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a tiny stone in your shoe, causing hesitation and discomfort, much like a moral doubt that makes you pause.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Scruple is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it describes a feeling of doubt or hesitation about whether an action is morally right, often accompanied by discomfort or a sense of obligation to do the right thing. It can also mean a small amount or quantity in older or formal usage, as in 'a scruple of spice.' As a verb, scruple means to hesitate or pause because of ethics or conscience, especially when a proposed action conflicts with personal or societal norms. The word carries a formal or literary tone and appears in phrases like 'without scruple' or 'to scruple to do something.'
Usage Reminders
- • Scruple (noun): moral doubt or hesitation.
- • Scruple (noun, old sense): a small amount or quantity.
- • Scruple (verb): to hesitate due to ethics or conscience.
- • Common collocations: without scruple, scruple to do something.
- • Distinguish from scrupulous (adjective): careful and principled.
- • Often formal or literary in modern usage.
Common Misconceptions
- People often think scruple only means moral doubt, but it can also mean a small quantity in old usage.
- Mistaking scruple for act of courage; it is usually about hesitation, not bravery.
- Confusing scruple with scrupulous; one is a noun/verb, the other an adjective.
- Assuming 'without scruple' means generous; it actually means without moral restraint.
- Thinking it’s a common everyday word; it’s relatively formal or literary.
Thinking Differences
In English, scruple blends moral reasoning with an old-fashioned sense of small quantity; learners often fear using it incorrectly or confuse its noun/verb forms.
Learning Tips
- Recognize the noun, verb, and archaic quantity senses.
- Use 'without scruple' to mean without moral restraint; contrast with 'have scruples' to show hesitation.
- Pair with scrupulous to note the contrast between adjective and noun verb forms.
- Watch formal or literary contexts where scruple appears.
- Practice with collocations: scruple to do something, a scruple about something.
- Avoid assuming it means bravery; it signals hesitancy, not courage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'scruple'?
A.To hesitate or doubt
B.To celebrate
C.To run quickly
D.To cook food
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'scruple' used correctly?
A.The cat scruples on the windowsill.
B.He scrupled to pet the dog.
C.She had no scruple about stealing from the store.
D.They scruple to the park.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'scruple'?
A.Confidence
B.Generosity
C.Hesitation
D.Excitement
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'scruple'?
A.Assurance
B.Hesitation
C.Pleasure
D.Indifference
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation might someone experience 'scruple'?
A.Deciding whether to cheat on a test
B.Going for a leisurely walk
C.Eating their favorite dessert
D.Purchasing a new book
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