B2noun1K

Principle

UK /["/ˈprɪnsəpl/"]/US /["/ˈprɪnsəpl/"]/

Definition

a moral rule or a strong belief that influences your actions

In simple words: A basic truth or rule that guides behavior

Examples

  • The principle of freedom is fundamental in democratic societies.
  • She refused to betray her principles for personal gain.
  • The scientific principle explains why this chemical reaction occurs.
  • In our discussion, we focused on the principle of equality.
  • The principle of supply and demand governs the economy.
  • He operates on the principle that honesty is the best policy.

Usage notes

Used in discussions about ethics, laws, or personal beliefs. Avoid using in casual conversations to maintain clarity, as 'principle' can be confused with 'principal', which refers to a person in a position of authority.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'principle' as your guiding 'print'; it leaves a mark on your decisions.

Collocations

  • high
  • founding
  • guiding
  • abandon
  • betray
  • compromise
  • against your principles
  • on principle
  • a matter of principle
  • a man/​woman of principle
  • basic
  • broad
  • central
  • violate
  • embody
  • embrace
  • apply
  • underlie something
  • underpin something
  • in principle
  • principle behind
  • the pleasure principle
  • the precautionary principle
  • the uncertainty principle

Synonyms

  • rule
  • law
  • precept
  • standard
  • truth

Antonyms

  • deviation
  • exception

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'principal', which means head of a school or main.
  • Incorrectly pluralized as 'principles' when speaking about a single rule.
  • 'Principle' used in a context that requires 'principled' (adjective form).