an issue of principle

USAGE SUMMARY

"an issue of principle" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a matter or situation that involves a strong moral or ethical concern. For example, "The teacher refused to let the student cheat on the test as it was an issue of principle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

But it was an issue of principle?

The Guardian

It's an issue of principle, not politics.

The New York Times

"But this isn't about borders; it's an issue of principle.

The New York Times - Sports

NUS president Aaron Porter said: "Its an issue of principle.

The Guardian

But he said that this is an issue of principle.

The Guardian

"It's an issue of principle: the House of Lords gives way to the House of Commons.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

For Bush, it seems both an issue of principle--that he is truly offended by the rape of Kuwait--and something that he has made quitepersonal.

The New Yorker

"This is an issue of principles and values for us.

Huffington Post

"It is an issue-of-faith principle to me.

The New York Times

But the judges said they were dealing with an issue of deep principle.

The New York Times

"This is emerging as a pocketbook issue, and not just as an issue of moral principle or access to care," said Drew E. Altman, the foundation's president.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an issue of principle", ensure the principle is clearly defined and understood within the context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "an issue of principle" when the matter is actually a question of policy or practical implementation, not a fundamental belief or value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an issue of principle" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a subject of discussion or contention rooted in fundamental moral or ethical beliefs. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showcasing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an issue of principle" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote a matter grounded in fundamental moral or ethical beliefs. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals that its primary function is to frame situations as being driven by core values, often emphasizing their significance. While it appears across various contexts, it is most frequently found in news and media and formal business settings. When using this phrase, ensure that the underlying principle is well-defined and relevant to the situation at hand, avoiding confusion with policy matters.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of ethics

Focuses specifically on the ethical dimension, potentially excluding other types of principles.

a moral imperative

Emphasizes the compelling and obligatory nature of the principle.

a question of morality

Highlights the moral dimension, framing it as a matter open to debate or consideration.

a point of honor

Connects the issue to personal or collective honor and integrity.

a core belief

Underscores the fundamental nature of the principle as a deeply held conviction.

a matter of integrity

Highlights the importance of honesty and strong moral principles.

a matter of conscience

Connects the issue to one's personal moral compass and sense of right and wrong.

a fundamental value

Emphasizes the foundational importance of the principle.

an ethical consideration

Highlights the considerations needed when talking about ethical implications.

a philosophical question

Frames the issue as one requiring deeper philosophical reflection and analysis.

FAQs

How can I use "an issue of principle" in a sentence?

You can use "an issue of principle" to describe a situation where a decision or action is based on a strong moral or ethical belief. For instance, "Refusing to compromise on data privacy was "an issue of principle" for the company".

What are some alternatives to "an issue of principle"?

Alternatives include "a matter of ethics", "a moral imperative", or "a core belief depending on the specific context and emphasis you want to convey".

Is it better to say "a matter of principle" or "an issue of principle"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice often depends on stylistic preference. "An issue of principle" might slightly emphasize the problematic or contested nature of the principle, while "a matter of principle" simply states its importance.

What's the difference between "an issue of principle" and "an issue of policy"?

"An issue of principle" concerns fundamental moral or ethical beliefs, while "an issue of policy" relates to rules, regulations, or guidelines implemented to achieve specific goals. For example, refusing to lie is "an issue of principle", whereas deciding on the speed limit on a highway is an issue of policy.