principle
noun
Principle vs. Principal: Usage Guide
Evidence of confusion between principle and principal can be found even in publications overseen by professional editors. To keep these words straight, remember that principle functions only as a noun, and in its most common uses refers to a basic rule or law, as in
or
If you are looking for an adjective form of this word, you must use principled, as in
Principal functions as both a noun and an adjective. The noun has various meanings referring to someone with controlling authority
or in a leading position
, but also has meanings relating to finance, law, and architecture. As an adjective, principal typically means "most important," as in
Synonyms
Examples of principle in a Sentence
Philip Roth, American Pastoral, 1997
Better, of course, to take a higher road, operate on the principle of service and see if things don't turn out better …
—Richard Ford, Independence Day, 1995
Pointlessness was life's principle, and it spread its sadness.
—Arthur Miller, Timebends, 1987
His investment strategy is based on the principle that the stock market offers the best returns for long-term investors.
the basic principles of hydraulics
Rob Wile, NBC News, 7 Nov. 2024
The Saudi government convened some 40 countries (not including Russia) in Jeddah in August 2023 to discuss principles for ending the war.
—Michael Kimmage, Foreign Affairs, 7 Nov. 2024
Will the United States find a way to live up to its founding principles?
—Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2024
Should neither side peel away significant portions of the other’s base, the race will return to basic principles: turnout.
—The New Yorker, 5 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for principle 
Dictionary Entries Near principle
Cite this Entry
“Principle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/principle. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.
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principle
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