Pronunciation

/prɪnˈsəpl/

Definitions

• Noun: 1. A fundamental truth or belief; a guiding principle. [e.g.] “The company’s principles of integrity and fairness are essential.” 2. A person or thing regarded as the most important or representative example of a category. [e.g.] “The headmaster is the principle of the school.”
• Verb: To base on or act according to a set of principles. [e.g.] “Our decisions should be principled rather than arbitrary.”
• Adjective: Characteristic of a fundamental nature or basic quality. [e.g.] “The principle design elements of the building.”

Phrases

• “Lay down principles” means to establish or declare guidelines or rules.
• “Act in accordance with one’s principles” means to behave consistently with one’s beliefs.
• “The principal reason” refers to the main or chief cause.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The principle of equal opportunity is enshrined in our organization’s policies.”
• Verb: “She acted in accordance with her principles, even when it was difficult.”
• Adjective: “The principal architect’s vision shaped the entire project.”

Synonyms

• Guiding rule
• Basic tenet
• Foundation
• Rule
• Precept
• Axiom
• Doctrine
• Fundament

Antonyms

• Flawed
• Unprincipled
• Flexible
• Arbitrary
• Capricious