GREAT GIFT IDEA!

The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

✔ Add 2,000 must-know adjectives to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 99 categorized lessons, 232 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, CPE, BEC, PTE, FCE

Buy on Amazon

4.9

Transform Your Vocabulary Today!

principle

noun

/ˈprɪn sə pə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of principle

A fundamental truth, law, or belief that serves as a foundation or guiding concept.
"Honesty and integrity are guiding principles in his life."

Detailed meaning of principle

In this sense, principles are considered to be universal and timeless, providing a framework for understanding and evaluating various aspects of life and knowledge. Secondly, principle can denote a code of ethics or moral standard that guides a person's behavior or decision-making. It represents a set of values or ideals that individuals or organizations strive to uphold. Thirdly, principle can describe a fundamental or primary element or constituent of something. It signifies an essential component or aspect that plays a crucial role in the functioning or structure of a system or concept. Finally, principle can refer to a rule or standard of conduct that is binding or accepted within a particular context or domain. It can represent a rule or guideline that governs actions, procedures, or practices, often in areas such as law, science, or philosophy. The term principle encompasses these various meanings, highlighting the fundamental, ethical, essential, and regulatory aspects that guide our understanding and behavior in different spheres of life.

Example sentences containing principle

1. Honesty is a fundamental principle in any healthy relationship.
2. The principle of supply and demand governs market dynamics.
3. Our school's guiding principle is a commitment to lifelong learning.
4. The principle of fairness should guide our decision-making.
5. Freedom of speech is a foundational democratic principle.
6. She firmly believes in the principle of equal opportunity.

History and etymology of principle

The noun 'principle' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'principium,' which is derived from 'princeps,' meaning 'first' or 'foremost.' In Latin, 'principium' referred to the beginning or starting point of something and was associated with fundamental concepts. As this term evolved through Old French as 'principe' and then into Middle English, it retained its core meaning of a fundamental truth, law, or belief that serves as a foundation or guiding concept. The etymology of 'principle' underscores its association with being the starting point or foundational idea upon which other concepts or beliefs are built, emphasizing its importance in shaping our understanding of fundamental truths and guiding principles in various fields of knowledge and ethics.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun principle:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of principle

1. The principle of conservation is vital for environmental sustainability.
2. The scientific principle behind this is well-established.
3. Ethical principles should shape our business practices.
4. The principle of justice must prevail in the courtroom.
5. The principle of gravity explains why objects fall.
6. In science, the principle of cause and effect is fundamental.
7. The principle of unity is evident in their teamwork.
8. The golden rule is a universal moral principle.
9. The principle of balance is key to a healthy lifestyle.
10. The principle of trust is crucial in building relationships.
11. He adheres to the principle that actions speak louder than words.
12. The principle of subsidiarity is important in governance.
13. The principle of non-violence was central to his philosophy.
14. The principle of supply chain efficiency drives our operations.
15. The company operates on the principle of transparency.
16. The principle of supply and demand governs the pricing in the market.
17. She firmly believes in the principle of equality for all.
18. The school promotes the principle of lifelong learning.
19. The project was completed based on the principle of collaboration.
20. He violated the principles of fairness by favoring his own interests.
21. The principle of conservation of energy is a fundamental concept in physics.
22. The negotiations were based on the principle of mutual benefit.
23. The team's success is built on the principle of hard work and dedication.
24. The principle of free speech is protected by the constitution.
25. The scientific study adhered to the principles of rigorous research methodology.