a principled answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a principled answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a response that is based on strong moral or ethical principles. Example: "In response to the ethical dilemma presented, she provided a principled answer that reflected her values."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

However, this practical attitude of scientists towards modelling should not be mistaken for a principled answer to the questions raised in the philosophy of statistics (see Morey et al 2013).

SEP

Indeed, without an account of underlying causal structure, it becomes difficult to give a principled answer to the question why some conditions should be seen as pathological to begin with.

SEP

Critics may be right that the lack of a principled answer to this question won't matter because the financial and public relations benefits of football are simply too great for the leaders of Division I universities, whether academically elite or not, to cede any of their control over football to those who do not have winning as their primary mission.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The principled answer to that question is a resounding "no".

Forbes

A really satisfying theory of explanation should provide some principled answer to the question of whether all why explanation must be causal (and according to what notion of causal this is so or not so), rather than just assuming an affirmative (or negative) answer to this question.

SEP

Dukakis's robotic if principled answer — "No, I don't, Bernard.

The New Yorker

At this time, we have no principled answer.

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

However, the policy alternatives are not only to give indirect non health benefits the same weight as direct health benefits, or to give them no weight at all; they can be given some but lesser weight than direct health benefits and costs, though there is no apparent principled answer to how much weight these effects should receive in different contexts.

Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation

It's not clear whether there is a principled and precise answer to this question.

SEP

This method of distinguishing categories also provides a principled way of answering some of the central questions for theories of categories, including whether or not there is a single summum genus, and what the relationship is between linguistic/conceptual and ontological categories.

SEP

They are difficult to answer in a principled way, but there's no better place to start than with the answers found in John Stuart Mill's On Liberty.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a principled answer", ensure the context clearly establishes the ethical or moral framework the answer adheres to. This provides clarity and strengthens the credibility of the response.

Common error

Avoid using "a principled answer" when a practical or pragmatic solution is more appropriate. "Principled" implies adherence to a moral code, while "practical" focuses on effectiveness. Be mindful of the intended meaning to avoid misrepresenting the nature of the response.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a principled answer" functions as an adjective-noun phrase that modifies the noun "answer". It describes the quality of the answer, indicating that it is based on strong moral or ethical principles. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a valid and usable phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a principled answer" is used to describe a response rooted in strong moral or ethical foundations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While grammatically sound and recognized across diverse sources, the phrase is used uncommonly. Alternatives such as "an ethical response" or "a moral answer", may suit different contexts. When employing "a principled answer", ensure the ethical framework underpinning it is clear. Be cautious not to confuse it with a merely practical solution. Though not excessively frequent, its precision and clarity make it valuable when emphasizing ethical considerations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an ethical response

Emphasizes the moral correctness of the answer.

a moral answer

Focuses on the rightness or wrongness of the response based on moral standards.

a conscientious reply

Highlights the careful and thoughtful nature of the response.

an upright solution

Suggests a resolution that is in accordance with principles of integrity.

an honorable explanation

Implies that the explanation is worthy of respect and admiration.

a just resolution

Indicates a fair and impartial outcome to a problem or conflict.

a scrupulous account

Conveys that the explanation is thorough, precise, and attentive to detail.

a righteous justification

Suggests a defense or reason that is morally justifiable.

a principled stance

Focuses on the act of taking a position that is based on a set of moral or ethical beliefs.

a consistent viewpoint

This stresses the consistency of the answer with established principles or beliefs.

FAQs

How can I use "a principled answer" in a sentence?

You can use "a principled answer" to describe a response that is based on strong ethical or moral beliefs. For example, "Faced with the dilemma, she offered "a principled answer" that reflected her commitment to justice".

What are some alternatives to "a principled answer"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "an ethical response", "a moral answer", or "a conscientious reply".

Is "a principled answer" always the best approach?

While "a principled answer" reflects strong moral convictions, it may not always be the most pragmatic or effective solution in every situation. Consider the specific context and potential consequences before prioritizing principle over practicality.

What makes an answer "principled"?

An answer is considered "principled" when it is based on a consistent and well-defined set of moral or ethical guidelines, rather than on personal feelings, convenience, or expediency.