based on principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on principle" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing actions, decisions, or beliefs that are founded on a specific moral or ethical standard. Example: "Her decision to refuse the offer was based on principle, as she believed it contradicted her values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

As an analyst, rather than as a voter, I could live with any of these outcomes, as long as it was a genuinely political outcome, and not one based on principle.

The New York Times

While admitting that "we wouldn't want the marketplace to think we were a soft touch", Sants firmly believes in the sort of regulation typical of British institutions: one based on principle rather than prescription.

The Guardian - Business

Governor Riley's veto was based on principle.

The New York Times

Both parties have been bereft of policy based on principle.

The Guardian - Opinion

But our response should be likewise based on principle.

Independent

He threatened to quit, again, based on principle alone.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. McGeady says his stance against Microsoft was based on principle, not a vendetta.

The New York Times

Part of Obama's reluctance, he believes, was based on principle, and another part was personal.

The New Yorker

For some speed freaks, it emerges, their misgivings are based on principle.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

They are able to make decisions based on principles.

Harvard Business Review

Liberal democracies are based on principles of inclusion and tolerance.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "based on principle", ensure the principle is clearly defined or easily understood by the audience. This provides context and strengthens the rationale behind the action or decision.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that a decision is "based on principle" without providing concrete examples or explaining the relevant principle. This can make your statement seem vague or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on principle" functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a noun or verb to indicate the reason or foundation for an action, decision, or belief. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "based on principle" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that signifies actions, decisions, or beliefs are rooted in specific moral or ethical standards. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's used across diverse contexts such as news, science, and business, denoting a neutral to formal register. To effectively use this phrase, ensure that the underlying principle is clearly defined, avoiding vagueness. Alternatives like "grounded in principle" or "guided by principle" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. By understanding its function, purpose, and common usages, you can confidently incorporate "based on principle" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grounded in principle

Emphasizes the firm foundation of the action or decision.

founded on principle

Highlights the establishment of the action or decision on a core belief.

guided by principle

Focuses on the directive nature of the principle in the decision-making process.

driven by principle

Suggests a strong motivational force behind the action.

stemming from principle

Indicates the origin or source of the action or decision.

predicated on principle

Highlights that the action depends on the specified principle.

underpinned by principle

Emphasizes the supporting role of the principle.

informed by principle

Suggests that the principle shapes or influences the action.

ruled by principle

Focuses on the governing aspect of the principle.

consistent with principle

Highlights the harmony between the action and the specified principle.

FAQs

How do you use "based on principle" in a sentence?

You can use "based on principle" to describe actions or decisions that are rooted in a specific moral or ethical code. For example, "His decision to resign was "based on principle", as he disagreed with the company's new policies".

What are some alternatives to "based on principle"?

Alternatives include "grounded in principle", "founded on principle", or "guided by principle". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct: "based on principle" or "based off principle"?

"Based on principle" is the grammatically correct and more widely accepted phrase. "Based off principle" is less common and may be considered informal.

What's the difference between "based on principle" and "for all practical purposes"?

"Based on principle" indicates adherence to a moral or ethical standard, while "for all practical purposes" /s/for+all+practical+purposes means something is true in effect, even if not technically or officially.