Type: Adjective Phrase
Accepted meaning: when a person, team, army or other group loses a confrontation, and yet achieves some other moral gain.
Actual meaning:: Defeat!
Purpose of accepted meaning: To convince one’s self and or others that you have not lost by losing.
Results of said purpose: Either self delusion or inspiration.
Commentary:
If a person claims a Moral victory they are basically trying to assuage the effects of an actual defeat. This method can be used constructively; I.E: To rally troops or groups to continue to fight in a long campaign or to keep a team motivated for the next game or an ongoing campaign (losing a battle winning the war).
It is more often than not used to excuse defeat and/or as a method of self congratulation in defeat. When used in this way it is not only delusional but narcissistic. Always be wary of a person using the possibility of a “moral victory” when going into a fight, that tells you they are not there to win.
Be wary of: People soliciting money for the purpose of winning a moral victory
