a great principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a great principle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a significant or fundamental idea or belief that guides actions or thoughts. Example: "The organization is built on a great principle of integrity and transparency in all its dealings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"It is a great principle," Rockefeller replied.

The New Yorker

Rockefeller replied, "It is a great principle".

The New Yorker

I think road maps are a great principle just for managing your life.

The New York Times

"Democracy is a great principle," said Mr. Williams, who wears long dreadlocks pulled back behind his head.

The New York Times

The introduction of universal education is a great principle too, and it is natural that there will be challenges when something is just beginning.

The Guardian

On the other hand, it's the vindication of a great principle: if the irrational action moves fast enough, no audience will ever have breath to question it.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

But there was a greater principle at stake.

The New Yorker

Still, speaking from Russia early Tuesday, President Obama said there was a greater principle at stake: "America supports now the restoration of the democratically elected president of Honduras, even though he has strongly opposed American policies".

The New York Times

We can only justify that inconsistency and the use of deception when we truly serve a greater principle, such as pursuing a highly important and otherwise elusive truth.

Huffington Post

These two principles are each subdivided into three degrees: yin has a great female principle, a female principle proper, and a young female principle, while yang has the male counterparts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A man of great principle and a voice of reason he fought passionately to ensure segregation be banished forever from the NYC public school system.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a great principle", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the principle significant. Provide specific examples or explanations to illustrate its importance and application.

Common error

Avoid using "a great principle" as a generic phrase without providing specific details about the principle itself. Always clarify the principle's meaning and relevance to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a great principle" functions as a noun phrase, where "great" modifies the noun "principle". It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, denoting a significant guiding belief or fundamental truth. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which affirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Reference

6%

Wiki

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a great principle" is grammatically correct and commonly used to emphasize the importance of a guiding belief or fundamental truth. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples from diverse sources. While versatile, it's best used with clear context to specify the principle and its significance. Alternatives such as "a core tenet" or "a fundamental concept" can be used for variety, but "a great principle" remains a strong and effective choice for conveying importance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a first principle

Highlights the priority and origin of the idea as an initial foundation.

a basic tenet

Focuses on the elementary or foundational aspect of the principle.

a core tenet

Replaces "great principle" with a more concise term, focusing on the fundamental nature of the belief.

a fundamental concept

Emphasizes the foundational aspect of the idea, using "concept" instead of "principle".

a central idea

Replaces "principle" with a more general term, emphasizing the importance of the thought or notion.

a guiding philosophy

Suggests a broader system of beliefs that influences behavior and decisions.

a key doctrine

Highlights the importance and official nature of the principle, using "doctrine".

an essential guideline

Highlights its role in providing direction or a course of action.

a supreme value

Implies a high level of importance and worth attributed to the guiding belief.

a noble precept

Suggests a moral or ethical rule that is commendable and worthy of emulation.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a great principle" in a sentence?

To use "a great principle" effectively, clearly state the principle and explain its importance or impact. For example, "Integrity is "a great principle" that guides all our business decisions."

What are some alternatives to saying "a great principle"?

You can use alternatives like "a core tenet", "a fundamental concept", or "a guiding philosophy" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a great principle" or "an important principle"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a great principle" suggests a more profound or impactful belief, while "an important principle" simply emphasizes significance. The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of emphasis you want to convey.

What makes something qualify as "a great principle" rather than just a good idea?

A "great principle" typically possesses qualities such as universal applicability, ethical grounding, and long-term positive impact. It serves as a foundational belief that guides actions and decisions in a consistent and meaningful way, unlike a mere fleeting or situational idea.