Goodness has the broadest meaning of the words in this list and, as here compared, stresses inherent qualities of moral excellence and an underlying compassion. Goodness is applied to the Deity, to saints and to persons whose actions are characterized by a surpassing humanity or ethical commitment.

The other words in this list are examples of moral excellence that is acquired or striven for. Of these, morality is the broadest word, in that it may mean moral excellence based on religious teaching or on adherence to a code of ethics. Righteousness is limited mostly to religious use, and means either a strict fidelity to the divine law or a code of conduct based on it. Purity , in this sense, is also limited in its use. It is usually found in such contexts as a life of purity , purity of motives, and the like and implies an absence of faults rather than a positive striving for moral excellence.

Virtue is a broad word meaning moral excellence based on a conscious effort to do the right thing. Found often in religious contexts, virtue is also applied in connection with worldly, day-to-day actions.

Integrity , probity and rectitude all imply a strict adherence to a stern code of ethics. Integrity and probity are based on an undeviating honesty that imputes broad virtue to the subject. Rectitude is a strict adherence to rules of right, justice, and the like and carries a strong suggestion of self-discipline.