a key underlying principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key underlying principle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing fundamental concepts or ideas that support a larger argument or framework. Example: "Transparency is a key underlying principle of our organization, guiding our interactions with clients and stakeholders."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

A key underlying principle is the use of models as tools from which information is extracted, rather than as competing attempts to represent reality.

Agricultural and Forest Meteorology

A key underlying principle of the vināśitvānumāna is that negative facts, such as absences, are not part of the ultimate furniture of the world, but are just fictional conceptual constructions, as they are devoid of causal powers.

SEP

And indeed transparency is a key underlying principle of GDPR, which places requirements on data controllers to clearly explain to people what personal data they intend to collect and for what exact purpose — in order to gain informed consent for processing the data (or, if not consent, another valid basis is required for the data processing to be legal).

TechCrunch

A key underlying principle of STRIVE is effective engagement at all stages with stakeholders including government, non-government organisations and the community.

BMC Infectious Diseases

A key underlying principle of realism is that researchers cannot have certain knowledge of the world or objectivity, but that all knowledge is partial and fallible, and therefore theory generated from a realist perspective is only as good as it is until it is disproved.

BMJ Open

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The key underlying principle in the project is the use of well-defined models of computation that govern the interactions between components.

University of California, Berkeley

The key underlying principle in the project is the use of well-defined models of computation that govern the interaction between components.

University of California, Berkeley

The key underlying principle in the Ptolemy II is the use of well-defined models of computation that govern the interaction between components.

University of California, Berkeley

Note that the first three 'Es' have been key underlying principles of Operation Lifesaver in the USA.

Urban Rail Transit

Still there is a difference between an underlying principle and specific proposal".

The New York Times - Books

Quantum key distribution (QKD) is different because it encodes this key on light particles called photons, and an underlying principle of quantum mechanics means that a hacker trying to read or copy such a key would automatically alter its state, effectively leaving a hacker fingerprint so the sender and receiver know their information security had been breached.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a key underlying principle", ensure it is clearly linked to the specific context you are discussing. Explicitly state how this principle influences decisions or outcomes.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a key underlying principle" as universally accepted without acknowledging potential counterarguments or exceptions. Acknowledge the specific domain or context where the principle is most relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key underlying principle" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. Ludwig confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key underlying principle" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize a foundational concept. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is generally used correctly in diverse contexts. It is most frequently seen in scientific, news media, and academic writing, signaling a formal tone. Related phrases like "a fundamental guiding principle" and "a core foundational principle" can offer nuanced alternatives. When using this phrase, ensure it's clearly linked to the specific context and avoid overstating its universality. It's more explanatory than a rule, offering a rationale rather than a direction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A fundamental guiding principle

Emphasizes the foundational and directive nature of the principle.

A core foundational principle

Highlights the central and fundamental aspect of the principle.

A basic operative principle

Focuses on the practical and functional aspect of the principle.

A central tenet

Replaces "principle" with "tenet", indicating a core belief or doctrine.

A primary foundational concept

Substitutes "principle" with "concept", emphasizing the conceptual nature.

An essential preliminary assumption

Highlights the assumptive nature, implying it's a starting point.

The bedrock principle

Implies a solid and unshakeable foundational principle.

A cardinal rule

Highlights the importance of the principle as a fundamental rule.

An integral foundational component

Emphasizes the integral and foundational role of the principle.

A keystone concept

Keystone implies that the concept is essential to hold everything together.

FAQs

How can I effectively illustrate "a key underlying principle" in my writing?

Provide concrete examples or case studies that demonstrate the principle in action. This helps readers understand its practical implications and relevance.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a key underlying principle"?

Consider using phrases such as "a fundamental guiding principle", "a core foundational principle", or "a central tenet" to convey a similar meaning with slightly different emphasis. See also "a fundamental guiding principle".

Is it redundant to say "key underlying principle"?

While "key" and "underlying" both emphasize importance, using them together can reinforce the fundamental nature of the principle, adding emphasis rather than being strictly redundant.

How does "a key underlying principle" differ from a simple 'rule'?

A "key underlying principle" is more foundational and explanatory, while a 'rule' is more prescriptive and directive. A principle provides a rationale, whereas a rule dictates action.