adhering to principles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adhering to principles" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to someone or something staying true to their core beliefs or ideas. For example, "He was determined to lead with integrity, adhering to principles he held most dear."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"He risked his career by adhering to principles," said PAUL G. KIRK JR., chairman of the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, which administers the award.

The New York Times - Style

Although he was pro-Europe, he was very much a traditionalist, adhering to principles such as Sunday-is-sacred and capital punishment.

The Guardian

Federal credit unions need to develop minimum underwriting standards that account for a member's need for quickly available funds, while adhering to principles of responsible lending.

Cornell University

Balancing the needs of increasing yields of productive systems while adhering to principles of sustainability is one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century.

Forest Ecology and Management

But even if you're adhering to principles of data-driven management, why not instead conduct controlled, randomized experiments to find out which practices are the best at promoting productivity, worker satisfaction, and innovation?

Harvard Business Review

It negotiates agreements in good faith with local leaders, adhering to principles of local control and resource limitations without compromising its statutory responsibility to enforce federal civil rights laws.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

The problem, he decided, was a failure to adhere to principles of democracy and human rights.

The New Yorker

Clinical trials in chronic GVHD should adhere to principles of good trial design and practice.

Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation

Many parts of Popovich's coaching adhere to principles based in advanced stats, including fouling at the end of quarters to steal an extra possession.

The New York Times

Operators could suppress damaging Internet behavior, Arcep said, as long as the actions taken adhered to principles of relevance, proportionality, nondiscrimination, efficiency and transparency.

The New York Times - Tech

Additionally, the Party must recognize the autonomy of citizens and social organizations if it expects them to adhere to principles of morality and virtue.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "adhering to principles", ensure that the specific principles are clearly defined or understood within the context. This provides clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "adhering to principles" as a vague or generic statement. Always specify which principles are being followed to avoid misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adhering to principles" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a subject complement or part of a prepositional phrase. It describes the act of sticking to a set of beliefs or values. As Ludwig showcases, it is used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

31%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "adhering to principles" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies a commitment to following a set of beliefs, values, or rules. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While alternatives such as "abiding by principles" and "upholding principles" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using this phrase, ensure that the specific principles are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media, Science and Academia contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

abiding by principles

Focuses on compliance or obedience to established principles.

upholding principles

Implies actively maintaining and defending a set of principles.

observing principles

Highlights the act of watching and following principles.

maintaining principles

Emphasizes the continuation and preservation of certain principles.

staying true to principles

Indicates loyalty and unwavering commitment to principles.

remaining faithful to principles

Conveys a sense of dedication and allegiance to core beliefs.

keeping to principles

Suggests sticking closely to guidelines or rules.

acting in accordance with principles

Focuses on aligning actions and behaviors with established principles.

being guided by principles

Highlights the influence and direction that principles provide.

following ethical standards

Specifically emphasizes the moral dimension of adhering to principles.

FAQs

What does "adhering to principles" mean?

The phrase "adhering to principles" means to follow or stick closely to a set of beliefs, values, or rules. It implies a commitment to acting in accordance with these guidelines.

How can I use "adhering to principles" in a sentence?

You can use "adhering to principles" to describe a person, organization, or action that is consistent with a defined set of values. For example, "The company made its decision "adhering to principles" of environmental sustainability".

What are some alternatives to "adhering to principles"?

Alternatives to "adhering to principles" include "abiding by principles", "upholding principles", and "observing principles". The choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "adhering to principles" or "following principles"?

"Adhering to principles" and "following principles" are similar, but "adhering to principles" suggests a stronger commitment and stricter compliance. "Following principles" can imply a more general or less rigid approach.