a key principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key principle" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an important or fundamental concept that is central to a discussion or argument. Example: "Transparency is a key principle in building trust within any organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A key principle underscores all our work.

Yale University

A key principle of Buddhist life is the cultivation of compassion for all living beings.

The New Yorker

Open justice is a key principle of any mature democratic society.

The Guardian

Fighting global warming without increasing the deficit is a key principle of this legislation.

The New York Times

It's a manifestation of the wave-particle duality, a key principle of quantum mechanics.

Cornell University

But it also illustrates a key principle of web distribution - the value of a "long tail".

The Guardian - Tech

No one spoke, in keeping with a key principle of mindful eating.

The New York Times - Food

The Human Genome Project launched a new style of big science — huge international collaborations with openness as a key principle.

The Guardian

More importantly, a pizza is made up of layers, a key principle used in 3D printing technology.

The Guardian - Tech

We also have a key principle of communal effort, so we're asking everyone to look out for each other.

The Guardian

Or, more accurately, we came by our tendency toward over-control because it manifests a key principle of brain design.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a key principle", ensure the principle is clearly defined and its importance is explicitly stated to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a key principle" for minor or secondary concepts. Reserve it for truly fundamental ideas to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key principle" primarily functions as a noun phrase that identifies and emphasizes the importance of a specific concept, idea, or rule. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and broad applicability across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

27%

Science

27%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key principle" is a noun phrase used to emphasize the fundamental importance of a concept across various fields. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correct and common usage, particularly in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure the principle's significance is clear and avoid overusing it for minor details. Alternatives such as ""a fundamental tenet"" or ""a core concept"" can provide nuanced variations depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fundamental tenet

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the concept, implying a core belief or doctrine.

a core concept

Highlights the central importance of the idea, suggesting it's essential for understanding something.

a basic premise

Focuses on the underlying assumption or starting point of an argument or system.

an essential element

Stresses the necessity of the component, indicating it's indispensable for completeness.

a cornerstone

Implies the fundamental and indispensable nature of something on which everything else depends.

a guiding principle

Highlights the role of the concept in directing actions or decisions.

a central theme

Focuses on the recurring and unifying idea in a work or discussion.

a primary rule

Highlights the concept is a rule of highest order and importance.

a crucial aspect

Highlights the concept is crucial and important in that situation.

an integral part

Highlights the concept as an inseparable part that forms a whole.

FAQs

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

You can use "a key principle" to introduce an idea that is fundamental or essential to a particular field, argument, or process. For example, "Transparency is "a key principle" in ethical governance".

What are some alternatives to "a key principle"?

Some alternatives to "a key principle" include "a fundamental tenet", "a core concept", or "a guiding principle", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a key principle" in formal writing?

Yes, "a key principle" is appropriate for formal writing as it clearly and directly conveys the importance of a particular concept or idea. Its usage is supported by numerous examples in academic and professional contexts.

What's the difference between "a key principle" and "an important factor"?

"A key principle" suggests a foundational or essential element, while "an important factor" simply indicates something that has a significant influence or effect but may not be as fundamental.