principle
a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct
How often you will meet it
Rank 2,830 of 71,295 words measured. It occurs 5,845 times across 155,370 chapters — 0.003% of every word in the library.
What it means
noun
- a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct also: rule their principles of composition characterized all their works
- a rule or standard especially of good behavior a man of principlehe will not violate his principles
- a basic truth or law or assumption the principles of democracy
- a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system also: rule the principle of the conservation of massthe principle of jet propulsion
- rule of personal conduct also: precept
- (law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature) also: rationale the rationale for capital punishmentthe principles of internal-combustion engines
principle in real books
Each sentence below was written by a published author and is taken from a different book in our library. Open one to read the passage it came from, with narration.
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Mr. Burton, sacrificing principle to friendship, had one with him.
Admiral Peters Odd Craft, Part 14. · W. W. (William Wymark) Jacobs · Chapter 1
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It is an ancient principle of law that the buyer must beware.
The High School Boys' Canoe Club · H. Irving (Harrie Irving) Hancock · Chapter 1
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To the end Lincoln never changed this principle of his public speaking.
Lincoln's Inaugurals, Addresses and Letters · Abraham Lincoln · Chapter 1
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He was frugal from habit and principle, more than from an undue longing after worldly wealth.
The Wept of Wish-Ton-Wish · James Fenimore Cooper · Chapter 1
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Jim acknowledged the presence of the former, and his efforts in Mag's behalf told also of a finer principle.
Our Nig · Harriet E. Wilson · Chapter 1