What Is Another Way to Say “Core Values”?

Looking for synonyms for core values? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say core values.

  • Fundamental principles
  • Guiding beliefs
  • Ethical standards
  • Foundational values
  • Basic tenets
  • Moral compass
  • Key principles
  • Essential virtues
  • Bedrock values
  • Central beliefs
  • Primary values
  • Cornerstone principles
  • Intrinsic values
  • Heartfelt beliefs
  • Keystone virtues

Want to learn how to say core values professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Fundamental Principles

“Fundamental principles” are the basic concepts or beliefs that form the foundation of a system, organization, or individual’s actions. They’re used in contexts that emphasize the underlying basis for actions and decisions.
Example: The company’s decision-making process is guided by its fundamental principles of integrity and fairness.

2. Guiding Beliefs

“Guiding beliefs” are the convictions that steer an individual’s or organization’s behavior and decisions. They’re often used in strategic and ethical discussions.
Example: Our guiding beliefs in sustainability and innovation drive our approach to product development.

3. Ethical Standards

“Ethical standards” refer to the rules or principles that govern proper conduct. They’re commonly used in professional, legal, and business contexts.
Example: The ethical standards of the profession necessitate transparency and honesty in all our dealings.

4. Foundational Values

“Foundational values” are the central values that form the foundation of an organization’s culture or an individual’s character. They’re used in organizational development and personal growth.
Example: Trust and teamwork are the foundational values that our corporate culture is built upon.

5. Basic Tenets

“Basic tenets” are the fundamental beliefs or principles that form the basis of a system, theory, or philosophy. They’re suitable for academic, religious, and ideological discussions.
Example: The basic tenets of our educational philosophy include respect for all learners and commitment to lifelong learning.

6. Moral Compass

“Moral compass” is a metaphorical term used to describe a person’s ability to judge what is right and wrong and act accordingly. It’s used in ethical, personal development, and leadership contexts.
Example: A leader’s moral compass should guide their decisions, particularly in challenging ethical dilemmas.

7. Key Principles

“Key principles” are the main ideas or rules that form the basis of a theory, system, or practice. They’re used in a wide range of contexts including science, philosophy, and business.
Example: The key principles of our customer service policy are responsiveness, empathy, and reliability.

8. Essential Virtues

“Essential virtues” are the fundamental qualities considered to be morally good and desirable in character. They’re often discussed in ethical, cultural, and philosophical contexts.
Example: Honesty, courage, and compassion are considered essential virtues in our community.

9. Bedrock Values

“Bedrock values” are the most basic and fundamental values that serve as the foundation for beliefs and actions. They’re used in discussions about organizational culture and personal ethics.
Example: Our bedrock values of integrity and excellence have sustained our company through decades of change.

10. Central Beliefs

“Central beliefs” are the main beliefs around which thoughts or actions are centered. They’re suitable for discussions about ideology, religion, and personal convictions.
Example: The central beliefs of our organization include a commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

11. Primary Values

“Primary values” are the foremost or dominant values in a set of beliefs or practices. They’re used in a variety of contexts, from business to personal values.
Example: Our primary values, including innovation and teamwork, are at the heart of our corporate mission.

12. Cornerstone Principles

“Cornerstone principles” are the essential and foundational principles on which a system, organization, or philosophy is based. They’re often mentioned in foundational texts and strategic documents.
Example: Respect for individual rights and freedom of expression are cornerstone principles of our democratic society.

13. Intrinsic Values

“Intrinsic values” are the values that are valuable in and of themselves, not as a means to an end. They’re commonly discussed in philosophical, environmental, and ethical contexts.
Example: We believe in the intrinsic value of biodiversity, independent of its economic benefits.

14. Heartfelt Beliefs

“Heartfelt beliefs” are deeply held beliefs that are earnest and passionate. They’re suitable in personal, cultural, and motivational contexts.
Example: Her heartfelt beliefs in social equality motivate her volunteer work and activism.

15. Keystone Virtues

“Keystone virtues” are the central virtues or qualities that are crucial in a moral or ethical framework. They’re discussed in philosophical, educational, and cultural settings.
Example: The keystone virtues of our school’s ethos include respect, responsibility, and empathy.

Linda Brown