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virtue

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in virtue of (something)

Due to something; because of something; by reason of something. In virtue of your years of hard work and experience in the company, we think you would be well-suited to a managerial role within the company. I know that feel the need to intervene in virtue of your role as a father, but you need to allow your children a greater degree of independence.

See also: of, virtue

lady of easy virtue

euphemism A prostitute. A: "I think that Lord Stewart is spending time with a lady of easy virtue." B: "No, surely not!"

See also: easy, lady, of, virtue

by virtue of something

because of something; due to something. She's permitted to vote by virtue of her age. They are members of the club by virtue of their great wealth.

See also: of, virtue

make a virtue of necessity

Prov. to do what you have to do cheerfully or willingly. When Bill's mother became sick, there was no one but Bill to take care of her, so Bill made a virtue of necessity and resolved to enjoy their time together.

See also: make, necessity, of, virtue

Patience is a virtue.

Prov. It is good to be patient. Jill: I wish Mary would hurry up and call me back! Jane: Patience is a virtue. Fred: The doctor has kept us waiting for half an hour! If he doesn't call us into his office pretty soon, I may do something violent. Ellen: Calm down, dear. Patience is a virtue.

See also: patience, virtue

Virtue is its own reward.

Prov. You should not be virtuous in hopes of getting a reward, but because it makes you feel good to be virtuous. Bill: If I help you, will you pay me? Fred: Virtue is its own reward.

See also: own, reward, virtue

by virtue of something

(slightly formal)

because of Many people believe that he will avoid jail by virtue of his money and connections.

See also: of, virtue

extoll the virtues of somebody/something

  (formal)

to praise the good qualities of someone or something He wrote several magazine articles extolling the virtues of country life.

See also: of, virtue

make a virtue of necessity

  (formal)

to change something you must do into a positive or useful experience It's a long way to drive so I thought I'd make a virtue of necessity and stop off at some interesting places along the way.

See also: make, necessity, of, virtue

by virtue of

Also in virtue of. On the grounds of, by reason of, as in By virtue of a large inheritance she could easily afford not to work. [Early 1300s]

See also: of, virtue

make a virtue of necessity

Do the best one can under given circumstances, as in Since he can't break the contract, Bill's making a virtue of necessity. This expression first appeared in English in Chaucer's The Knight's Tale: "Then is it wisdom, as it thinketh me, to make virtue of necessity." Also see make the best of.

See also: make, necessity, of, virtue