as a point of principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a point of principle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a matter that is based on a fundamental belief or value, rather than practical considerations. Example: "She refused to accept the offer, as a point of principle, believing it undermined her values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Corbyn believes that Britain should not, as a point of principle, control the means to unleash atomic Armageddon.

The Guardian - Opinion

I feel very aggrieved at their attitude and want to pursue it as a point of principle.

The Guardian - Money

"As a point of principle, I would like everybody to be able to see everything," he was quoted as saying.

The New York Times

Andrew Langer, president of the Institute for Liberty, was at the party, and said conservatives had to welcome gay people into the movement as a point of principle.

The Guardian

All of the books are, as a point of principle, free of digital rights management, the controversial technology that controls how purchased media can be used.

The Guardian - Books

But, as a point of principle, given his commitment to reforming the institution, he thinks it would be wrong to become an appointed peer.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

It is as effective a marketing technique as it is a point of principle.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

That's as much a function of the type of accelerator we are; we take in fewer cohort members and provide a much more bespoke program to each, as it is a point of principle.

TechCrunch

Over the years, Richter's careful, equivocal restraint has become a point of principle, as well as a deep visual trait: the medium as moral expression.

The Guardian - Arts

"Neither materialised and, in the end, the matter became a point of principle as much as anything".

BBC

He was, by all accounts, an immoveable force, who felt that there should have been a ballot, which was relayed as a declaration of a "point of principle".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a point of principle", ensure that the principle being referenced is clear to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "as a point of principle" when the decision is merely a personal preference or habit. The phrase implies a deeper, more significant ethical or moral reason.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a point of principle" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by indicating the reason or basis for an action or decision. It signifies that the action is motivated by a core belief or value.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as a point of principle" is a commonly used and grammatically correct adverbial phrase. It conveys that an action or decision is motivated by a deeply held belief or core value. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While versatile, it is most frequently encountered in news and formal business contexts. Close alternatives include "on principle" and "as a matter of principle". When employing this phrase, ensure the principle in question is clearly understood and avoid confusing it with mere personal preference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on principle

Shorter, more direct way of expressing the same idea.

as a matter of principle

A more formal alternative that emphasizes the importance of the principle involved.

out of principle

Highlights the motivation behind the action, stemming from a core belief.

based on principle

Focuses on the foundation of the action being a specific principle.

for reasons of principle

Emphasizes the justification for the action based on ethical or moral grounds.

guided by principle

Highlights the principle as a guiding force behind the decision.

in accordance with principle

A formal way of saying that the action aligns with a set of principles.

as a matter of ethics

Shifts the focus specifically to ethical considerations.

from an ethical standpoint

Similar to "as a matter of ethics", but emphasizes a particular viewpoint.

as a moral imperative

Highlights a strong sense of moral obligation.

FAQs

What does "as a point of principle" mean?

It means that something is done or not done based on a fundamental belief or value, rather than practical considerations or personal desires.

How can I use "as a point of principle" in a sentence?

You can say, "She refused to compromise, "as a point of principle", even though it would have been easier."

What are some alternatives to "as a point of principle"?

Alternatives include "on principle", "as a matter of principle", or "out of principle".

Is there a difference between "as a point of principle" and "on principle"?

While both phrases are very similar, "as a point of principle" might be considered slightly more formal and explanatory, while "on principle" is more concise.