noblesse oblige
Say it: noh-BLESS oh-BLEEZH /nəʊˌblɛs əˈbliːʒ/ · noun phrase
What “noblesse oblige” means
The duty to help others that comes with privilege.
More precisely: The idea that privilege brings a duty to act generously and responsibly.
When to use it
For generosity seen as a duty of privilege, usually formally, sometimes with an ironic or critical edge.
Memory trick
French for nobility obliges: having advantages brings responsibilities towards people with fewer advantages.
Similar words
duty of privilege, obligation
Where it comes from
French, 'nobility obliges'.
Quick check
A wealthy landowner says her advantages make her responsible for funding the village's repairs. She believes in…
noblesse oblige or self-interest?
Show the answer
noblesse oblige
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