based on principles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on principles" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing ideas, theories, or actions that are founded on specific beliefs or values. Example: "The organization's policies are based on principles of fairness and equality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This slogan prefigures the republican nature of the future regime as one based on principles of both independence and freedom.

The Guardian - Opinion

I thought it was based on principles (e.g., less government, fewer regulations, control of one's reproductive choices, etc).

Huffington Post

They are able to make decisions based on principles.

Harvard Business Review

Liberal democracies are based on principles of inclusion and tolerance.

Stanford University

Not a union but a community, based on principles of solidarity and dignity.

The Guardian

They are lobbying for reform of Dublin based on principles of "solidarity and common responsibility".

The Guardian

"But planning policy is based on principles of sustainability, which means making best use of sites.

The Times

CNS drug design based on principles of blood-brain barrier transport.

Nature

The classifying is based on principles of linking the yarns in structuring the fabric.

Britannica

These rules are based on principles of Euclidian geometry in matters of layout and proportion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A decision not to apply a new rule retroactively is based on principles of stare decisis.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "based on principles", ensure that the principles you are referring to are clearly defined and understood within the context of your writing. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid overusing the passive voice when employing "based on principles". For example, instead of saying "The decision was based on principles", opt for the active voice: "The committee based its decision on principles".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on principles" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or clause to indicate the foundation or rationale behind an action, decision, or system. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples illustrating its versatile usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "based on principles" functions as a prepositional phrase used to ground actions, decisions, or systems in fundamental beliefs or values. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and frequently observed across news media, scientific literature, and academic writing. While alternatives like "rooted in principles" or "founded on principles" exist, maintaining clarity by explicitly defining the guiding principles strengthens your writing. Avoid overuse of the passive voice for more direct and impactful statements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rooted in principles

Emphasizes the fundamental and deeply embedded nature of the principles.

founded on principles

Highlights the establishment or creation based on core principles.

guided by principles

Focuses on the principles providing direction or guidance.

informed by principles

Suggests that principles provide the basis of the information.

predicated on principles

Highlights that principles are the necessary condition for something to happen.

underpinned by principles

Emphasizes the supporting and foundational role of principles.

derived from principles

Highlights how something originates or stems from principles.

drawing from principles

Suggests a selection or extraction of specific principles.

consistent with principles

Focuses on maintaining harmony and agreement with set principles.

aligned with principles

Emphasizes the harmonious arrangement or agreement with a set of principles.

FAQs

How can I use "based on principles" in a sentence?

You can use "based on principles" to indicate that an action, decision, or system is founded on specific beliefs or values. For instance, "The company's code of conduct is based on principles of honesty and integrity."

What are some alternatives to "based on principles"?

Alternatives include "rooted in principles", "founded on principles", or "guided by principles", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "based on principles" or "principled"?

"Based on principles" describes something that adheres to specific guidelines, while "principled" describes someone who personally adheres to those guidelines. They have different usages.

What is the difference between "based on principles" and "based on rules"?

"Based on principles" implies adherence to fundamental beliefs or values, offering more flexibility. "Based on rules" implies adherence to specific regulations, which are typically more rigid and defined.