What are the four cardinal virtues?

The four cardinal virtues are Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, and Temperance. These virtues are considered the cornerstone of human morality, from which all other virtues are said to stem.

Where do the cardinal virtues originate?

The concept of cardinal virtues originates from ancient Greek philosophy, particularly with Plato, who discussed them in his work 'The Republic.' They were later adopted and integrated into Christian theology by figures like Saint Ambrose and Saint Augustine.

How can I improve my crossword-solving speed?

To improve your crossword-solving speed, practice regularly, familiarize yourself with common crosswordese (frequently used short words and abbreviations), and learn to identify common clue types like anagrams, reversals, and homophones.

one of the cardinal virtues crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "one of the cardinal virtues crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find all the known answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzle-solving skills.

Solutions for "one of the cardinal virtues crossword clue" by Letter Count

7 Letters

JUSTICE: The virtue of fairness and righteousness, a core moral quality.

9 Letters

FORTITUDE: The virtue of courage and endurance in the face of adversity, allowing one to face fear or pain.

More About "one of the cardinal virtues crossword clue"

The "cardinal virtues" are a fundamental concept in both ancient philosophy and traditional Christian theology. Deriving from the Latin word "cardo," meaning "hinge," these four virtues—Prudence, Justice, Fortitude (or Courage), and Temperance—are considered the pivotal virtues upon which all other moral virtues depend. They represent core moral excellence that guides human behavior towards a good and virtuous life.

Each virtue addresses a different aspect of moral living: Prudence is practical wisdom, enabling one to discern the correct course of action; Justice is fairness and righteousness in dealings with others; Fortitude is the courage to persist in good actions despite difficulties; and Temperance is moderation and self-control. Understanding these virtues can often provide immediate insights when they appear as crossword clues, as their meanings are quite distinct yet interconnected.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Understand Context: Pay close attention to the phrasing of the clue. "One of the cardinal virtues" clearly points to a specific set of answers. Look for context clues that narrow down possibilities.
Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This is your primary filter and can eliminate many possibilities instantly.
Consider Synonyms: For virtues like Fortitude, common synonyms like "courage" or "bravery" might also appear in clues, so having a broad vocabulary of related terms is crucial.
Use Cross-References: If you're stuck on a particular clue, try solving intersecting words first. Often, a few confirmed letters from other clues can unlock the harder ones.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common cardinal virtue used in crosswords?

While all four (Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, Temperance) appear, "JUSTICE" and "FORTITUDE" are quite common due to their distinct letter counts and well-known meanings, making them frequent choices for setters.

Are the cardinal virtues the same as the theological virtues?

No, they are distinct. The cardinal virtues (Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, Temperance) are acquired through human effort and reason. The theological virtues (Faith, Hope, Charity/Love) are traditionally believed to be given by God's grace and relate directly to one's relationship with the divine.

How can knowing categories like "cardinal virtues" help my crossword solving?

Recognizing categories (e.g., US states, Roman gods, types of trees, cardinal virtues) can significantly speed up solving. When you see a clue referencing a category, your mind can immediately pull from a limited set of answers, rather than an infinite vocabulary.