a distinct principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct principle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific and clear guiding rule or concept that stands out from others. Example: "In our discussion about ethics, we must adhere to a distinct principle that prioritizes honesty above all else."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Strictly speaking a hypothetical choice interpretation of the BIP amounts to a distinct principle.

SEP

Even when antigenic combinations are used, there is the possibility of cross-reactions with other trypanosomatids, being then indicated the application of a confirmatory exam, normally of a distinct principle (e.g. IFA, ELISA etc).

Cell and Bioscience

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This year, however, has seen extraordinary convergence around a few distinct principles.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a distinct 4-3 principle that often causes the rest of the defensive linemen to play one-gap techniques (a staple of 4-3 defense).

The New York Times

But these universals are neither common natures "contracted" to individuals by some really or merely formally distinct principle of individuation, nor some universal objects of the mind, which exist in a "diminished" manner, as beings of reason.

SEP

However, in general this proof of equivalence will not carry through to an intuitionistic context, and thus what are classically two forms of one principle may result into two distinct principles when working intuitionistically.

SEP

It is not necessary to posit two really distinct or even two intentionally distinct principles to account for the fact that one may be aware of something as a possible existent when it does not actually exist.

SEP

Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) is an evolution of past platforms, preserving successful characteristics of traditional architectures and bringing with it distinct principles that follow service orientation in support service oriented enterprise.

Procedia Computer Science

However, unlike St. Thomas, he claims that the human soul is twofold, since the complete human soul derives from the close union of two distinct principles, the cogitative and the intellective ones.

SEP

Based on previous literature on immigrant integration the existence of two distinct principles of policy intervention woven into conceptual understandings of the integration process and policy designs is demonstrated.

Comparative Migration Studies

The Greek language denotes two distinct principles, Chronos and Kairos.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a distinct principle" when you want to emphasize that a particular guideline or fundamental truth is clearly differentiated from others. It's suitable in contexts where clarity and separation are important.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct principle" when a simpler term like "a key principle" or "an important principle" would suffice. Overusing 'distinct' can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct principle" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving to identify a specific, differentiated rule or concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinct principle" is a noun phrase used to emphasize a specific and separate guiding rule or concept. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable. While "a distinct principle" appears more frequently in Science and News & Media contexts, it is considered rare overall. When using "a distinct principle", ensure you are emphasizing a clear differentiation, and be mindful of potential overuse, which can lead to unnecessary formality. Consider alternatives like ""a clear principle"" or ""a unique principle"" to fine-tune your meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear principle

This alternative emphasizes the clarity of the principle, rather than its uniqueness or separation from other principles.

a unique principle

This emphasizes the uniqueness and originality of the principle.

a separate principle

This highlights the independence of the principle from others.

an individual principle

Focuses on the individuality of the principle, as opposed to it being part of a larger system.

a specific principle

Emphasizes the focused and particular nature of the principle.

a particular principle

Similar to 'specific principle', but can also suggest that the principle applies only in certain circumstances.

a defined principle

This stresses the well-defined and established nature of the principle.

a singular principle

This alternative underscores the exceptional or uncommon nature of the principle.

a discrete principle

Emphasizes the separateness and clear boundaries of the principle.

an isolated principle

This highlights the fact that the principle stands alone, without necessary connections to other principles.

FAQs

How can I use "a distinct principle" in a sentence?

You can use "a distinct principle" to highlight a clear and separate guiding rule. For example, "In our ethical framework, honesty is "a distinct principle" that guides all our decisions."

What are some alternatives to "a distinct principle"?

Alternatives include "a clear principle", "a unique principle", or "a separate principle", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a very distinct principle"?

While not strictly incorrect, using "very" with "distinct" can be redundant. "Distinct" already implies a clear separation. It's often more effective to simply use ""a distinct principle"" and let the context emphasize its importance.

What's the difference between "a distinct principle" and "a general principle"?

"A distinct principle" refers to a specific and clearly defined rule, while "a general principle" is a broader, more widely applicable guideline. The former emphasizes separation and clarity, whereas the latter emphasizes broad applicability.