bendable ethics

[BEN-duh-bul ETH-iks]
noun phrase
ética flexível
1. Moral principles or standards that are easily compromised, adjusted, or abandoned depending on circumstances, convenience, or personal gain; a flexible or situational approach to ethical conduct
The company's bendable ethics allowed them to cut corners on safety regulations whenever it increased profits.
A ética flexível da empresa permitiu que cortassem gastos com segurança sempre que isso aumentava os lucros.
2. A system of moral reasoning where principles are applied selectively rather than consistently
His bendable ethics meant he could justify almost any decision if it benefited him personally.
Sua ética flexível significava que ele podia justificar quase qualquer decisão se a beneficiasse pessoalmente.
The term 'bendable ethics' is commonly used in critiques of corporate behavior in both American and Brazilian contexts. In Brazil, it often appears in discussions of political corruption and business practices. In the USA, it's frequently invoked in corporate scandals and political discourse. The concept reflects cultural concerns about compromised values in modern capitalism and governance.
NYC Slang
playing fast and loose with the rules
Synonyms / Sinônimos
flexible moralitysituational ethicsselective principlescompromised valuesmalleable standards
Antonyms / Antônimos
rigid ethicsunwavering principlesinflexible moralityabsolute valuessteadfast integrity

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
ética flexível
most common translation used in business and social contexts
São Paulo
ética ajustável
alternative used in corporate environments
Rio de Janeiro
moral de samba
informal slang suggesting convenience-based morality
Portugal
ética adaptável
Portuguese variation with slightly different connotation

Related Words

moral relativismethical compromisesituational moralityintegrityaccountabilitycorporate corruption

Related Idioms & Phrases

bending the rules
moral gymnastics
ethical shopping
situational morality
having no spine
selling out
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