B1nounphilosophyacademic
US/ˈprɪn.sə.pəl/
UK/ˈprɪn.sə.pəl/
a basic rule or belief that guides how you behave or how something works
In context
Honesty is one of the principles my parents taught me.
In principle, I agree, but I need more details.
The basic principles of design are easy to learn.
Words that go with principle
noun + preposition
- in principleThe plan has been approved in principle.
- on principleShe refuses to eat meat on principle.
- principle ofEqual pay is based on the principle of fairness.
adjective + noun
- basic principleLearn the basic principles before you start.
- moral principleHe would never lie; it is a moral principle.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He is the principle of my school.Correct: He is the principal of my school.