compromised principles

[/ˈkɑːmprəmaɪzd ˈprɪnsəpəlz/]
noun phrase
princípios comprometidos
1. moral or ethical standards that have been weakened, abandoned, or violated in exchange for gain or to avoid conflict
The politician's compromised principles cost him the support of his base.
Os princípios comprometidos do político custaram-lhe o apoio de sua base eleitoral.
2. values or beliefs that have been partially abandoned or modified to reach an agreement or settlement
In business, compromised principles often lead to long-term reputational damage.
Nos negócios, princípios comprometidos frequentemente levam a danos reputacionais de longo prazo.
3. ethical standards that have been put at risk or made vulnerable through questionable actions
She refused to accept the job offer, fearing it would mean compromised principles.
Ela recusou a oferta de emprego, temendo que significasse princípios comprometidos.
In both American and Brazilian cultures, 'compromised principles' carries strong negative connotations, especially in political and business contexts. In Brazil, where personal relationships often influence business decisions, this phrase is frequently used in discussions of corruption and ethical lapses in government. In the USA, it appears regularly in media criticism and political discourse, often framed as a serious moral failing.
NYC Slang
sold-out principles; moral bankruptcy
Synonyms / Sinônimos
betrayed valuesabandoned ethicsmoral compromiseweakened convictionssacrificed integrity
Antonyms / Antônimos
uncompromising principlesfirm valuessteadfast integrityunwavering ethicsmoral fortitude

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
princípios comprometidos
Standard usage throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
princípios vendidos
Colloquial alternative emphasizing betrayal
São Paulo
princípios negociados
Business context variant
Portugal
princípios comprometidos
Same as Brazilian Portuguese, formal register

Related Words

integrityethicsmoralityvaluescompromisecapitulationsellout

Related Idioms & Phrases

sell one's soul
go against one's principles
bite the bullet
make a deal with the devil
sacrifice one's values
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