Principle

/pɹˈɪnsɪpə‍l/

/ˈpɹɪnsəpəɫ/

[noun]

Principle

[NOUN]

a fundamental rule that is considered to be true and can serve as a basis for further reasoning or behavior

synonyms : rule

a rule or standard especially of good behavior

a basic truth or law or assumption

a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system

synonyms : rule

(law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature)

synonyms : rationale

rule of personal conduct

synonyms : precept

Examples

1. Dees disliked all editors on principle, but he had to admit that this one at least gave credit where credit was due.

2. An engineer's job is to apply scientific principles to solve engineering challenges.

3. The political party had gone full circle, as it had returned to the original principles and values that had guided it in its early days.

4. The mentor advised the young entrepreneur that money unmakes the men who make it, and that they should always stay true to their values and principles.