principle

noun
UK: /ˈprɪnsəpəl/
US: /ˈprɪnsəpəl/

  1. A basic idea or rule that explains or controls how something happens or works.

    1. The principle is simple: work hard and succeed, that is the principle. [ ] [ ]
    2. The company operates on the principle that customer satisfaction is the main point. [ ] [ ]

  2. A moral rule or belief about what is right and wrong, that influences how you behave.

    1. He has strong principles, he always tells the truth based on his principle. [ ] [ ]
    2. She wouldn't lie about it; it was against her principles to deceive anyone ever. [ ] [ ]

  3. A general scientific law that explains how something happens.

    1. He explained the basic principles of physics simply, it's a main principle. [ ] [ ]
    2. This design shows a clear understanding of engineering principles in application. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

morality standard law rule axiom belief ethic

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "principle" in English means: A basic idea or rule that explains or controls how something happens or works., A moral rule or belief about what is right and wrong, that influences how you behave., A general scientific law that explains how something happens..

The phonetic transcription of "principle" is /ˈprɪnsəpəl/ in British English and /ˈprɪnsəpəl/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "principle": morality, standard, law, rule, axiom, belief, ethic.

Example usage of "principle": "The principle is simple: work hard and succeed, that is the principle.". More examples on the page.