What does “Take the High Road” mean?

"Take the High Road" means to choose the morally right or ethical path, even when faced with challenges or temptations.

What context can I use the in?

Example

Despite the pressure, he always takes the high road and refuses to engage in gossip.

Example

She decided to take the high road and forgive her friend for betraying her.

Example

Even though it was difficult, he chose to take the high road and not seek revenge

Is “Take the High Road” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Take the High Road” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Take the High Road” effectively in context?

You can use "Take the High Road" to encourage someone to choose the morally right or ethical path, even when faced with challenges or temptations. For example, if a friend is tempted to spread rumors about someone, you might say, 'Don't stoop to their level. Take the high road and refuse to engage in gossip.'

1Conflict Resolution
Instead of seeking revenge, she decided to take the high road and forgive her friend for betraying her.
2Workplace Ethics
Despite the pressure, he always takes the high road and refuses to engage in gossip.
3Personal Integrity
Even though it was difficult, he chose to take the high road and not seek revenge.

Similar phrases to “Take the High Road”:

Choose the moral high ground

To make a morally right or ethical choice, even in difficult circumstances

Example

Instead of retaliating, he chose to take the moral high ground and respond with kindness.

Be the bigger person

To act with maturity and integrity, especially when faced with conflict or negativity

Example

Even though he was wronged, he decided to be the bigger person and let go of the grudge.

Stay above the fray

To avoid getting involved in a conflict or argument

Example

She decided to stay above the fray and not engage in the heated debate.

Keep one's integrity intact

To maintain one's moral principles and values, even in challenging situations

Example

Despite the temptation, she kept her integrity intact and refused to compromise her values.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Take the High Road” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Take the High Road" is unknown.

Is “Take the High Road” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Take the High Road" is a well-known and frequently used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to encourage others to choose the morally right or ethical path, especially in challenging situations.

What tone does “Take the High Road” have?

"Take the High Road" conveys a tone of moral integrity and strength. It's often used to inspire others to make virtuous choices and rise above negativity or temptation.

Can “Take the High Road” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Take the High Road" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that emphasizes the importance of moral values and ethical behavior. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as discussions about ethics, personal development, or professional conduct.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She always takes the high road and refuses to engage in gossip.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "take the high road"!' to imply the need for making a morally right choice.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

choose the right path
act with integrity
maintain moral values
uphold ethical standards
follow the righteous path

Antonyms

sink to their level
seek revenge
act unethically
lose moral compass
compromise one's values