an underlying principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an underlying principle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing fundamental ideas or concepts that serve as the foundation for a theory, argument, or system. Example: "The underlying principle of our approach is to prioritize sustainability in all our projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

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

The New York Times - Books

"That kind of customer focus is an underlying principle of Six Sigma".

The New York Times

Freedom to contract is not spelled out explicitly but is an underlying principle in many provisions.

Britannica

There are virtues to pragmatism, but it should be in the service of an underlying principle.

The New York Times

Jung proposed the theory of "synchronicity," or meaningful coincidence, in which an underlying principle somehow unites discrete events.

The New York Times

It's an underlying principle of civil law that the state, police and judiciary have the obligation to protect the citizenry from harm.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

This observation has spawned interest in finding a common underlying principle, a 'goal function', of information processing implemented in this structure.

Brain and Cognition

But in another sense, this juxtaposition of domestic politics and foreign policy provides an opportunity to examine a serious underlying principle.

The New York Times

Again, transparency is a fundamental underlying principle of the Commission, as the Chairman articulated earlier.

Harvard University

Hydrodynamic cavitation (HC), which shares a similar underlying principle with ultrasonication but is energy-efficient, was employed as a physical means to break up WAS.

Ultrasonics Sonochemistry

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an underlying principle", ensure that the principle you are referring to is genuinely fundamental and serves as a foundation for the concept you're discussing. Avoid using it for minor or less significant aspects.

Common error

Avoid using "an underlying principle" without clearly defining what that principle is. Ensure it's not just a vague statement but a concrete idea that the rest of your argument or system builds upon.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an underlying principle" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a fundamental concept or foundational idea upon which a theory, argument, or system is based. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, demonstrating its role in establishing the groundwork for more complex ideas.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

37%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an underlying principle" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to denote a foundational concept or idea. As noted by Ludwig AI, it serves to establish a basis for understanding or argumentation across various domains. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the principle you are referring to is genuinely fundamental and clearly defined. Consider related phrases such as "a basic principle" or "a core tenet" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a basic principle

Replaces "underlying" with "basic", emphasizing simplicity and fundamentality.

a fundamental principle

Substitutes "underlying" with "fundamental", highlighting the essential and foundational nature.

a core principle

Uses "core" instead of "underlying", stressing the central and most important aspect.

a foundational principle

Replaces "underlying" with "foundational", emphasizing the role as a base or foundation.

a guiding principle

Changes "underlying" to "guiding", highlighting the principle's role in directing actions or decisions.

an essential principle

Substitutes "underlying" with "essential", stressing the necessary and indispensable nature of the principle.

a central tenet

Replaces "principle" with "tenet", providing a slightly more formal and doctrinal feel.

a key concept

Shifts from "principle" to "concept", focusing on the idea or notion that is fundamental.

a fundamental concept

Combines "fundamental" with "concept", stressing both the basic and conceptual nature.

the basis

Uses a noun phrase to convey that the underlying principle is a basis for a system or belief.

FAQs

How can I use "an underlying principle" in a sentence?

Use "an underlying principle" to introduce a fundamental idea or concept that forms the basis of a theory, system, or argument. For instance, "An underlying principle of democracy is the equality of all citizens."

What are some alternatives to saying "an underlying principle"?

You can use alternatives like "a basic principle", "a fundamental concept", or "a core tenet" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "the underlying principle" instead of "an underlying principle"?

Both "an underlying principle" and "the underlying principle" are grammatically correct, but their usage depends on the context. Use "an underlying principle" when referring to one of possibly many such principles. Use "the underlying principle" when referring to a specific principle already identified or understood in context.

What's the difference between "an underlying principle" and "an organizing principle"?

"An underlying principle" refers to a foundational concept upon which something is based. "An organizing principle" is a concept that structures or arranges elements within a system. While related, the first establishes a foundation, and the second arranges components.