by principle

USAGE SUMMARY

"by principle" can be used correctly in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a way of thinking or behaving that is based on a particular set of beliefs or values. For example, "He lives his life by principle, refusing to compromise on his values regardless of the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Nobody was led by principle, or had time to think.

The New Yorker

It is a decision motivated by power not by principle".

The Guardian

He said he was guided by principle, not politics.

The New York Times

Ms. Evansgardner said her husband, most of all, was fired up by principle.

The New York Times

"He was an independent Radical by principle, with a persistent strain of innate conservatism".

The Guardian - Books

The president who sits at that desk must be guided by principle.

The New York Times

In all of these reforms, we will be guided by principle, pragmatism and progress — not politics.

The New York Times

But people inspired by principle, love, self-sacrifice: I find them harder to understand, and therefore more interesting.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In the Loop excludes the part played by principle, fitting or misplaced, in the world that it portrays.

The Guardian - Film

His conservative adversaries on the Court make the same claim that they are led by principle, not politics.

The New Yorker

He was, says Mr Cash, "an independent Radical by principle, with a persistent strain of innate conservatism.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by principle", ensure the sentence clearly indicates what specific principle is being followed. For example, "The company operates by the principle of sustainability."

Common error

Avoid using "by principle" when you mean "in general" or "usually". "By principle" implies a conscious adherence to a specific, defined rule or belief, not just a common practice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by principle" functions as an adverbial prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the basis or reason for an action or belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is used to describe actions or decisions based on moral or ethical codes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by principle" is a versatile prepositional phrase that signifies acting in accordance with a specific belief or set of values. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely used, especially in news and media and scientific contexts. While "by principle" and "on principle" are close synonyms, understanding the subtle differences and contexts where each is best applied can enhance writing precision. Use "by principle" to show adherence to a defined rule or belief and avoid using it when simply meaning "in general". The high number of examples available through Ludwig demonstrates the phrase's frequent and varied application across reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on principle

Simple reordering of the words in QUERY - "on principle" - but has the closest possible meaning.

according to principles

This alternative expands on the original phrase by using a fuller explanation with the additional word "according" and pluralizing principle.

guided by principles

This implies a directed action based on rules, adding a sense of guidance to the original phrase.

based on convictions

Replaces principle with "convictions", highlighting a firm and deeply held belief.

out of principle

Replaces "by" with "out of", changing the nuance to suggest motivation stemming from a belief.

in accordance with values

Substitutes "principle" with "values", offering a broader reference to guiding beliefs.

driven by ideals

Changes from a passive adherence to principles to an active motivation by ideals.

rooted in ethics

Emphasizes the ethical foundation of the principle, focusing on moral considerations.

as a matter of principle

This emphasizes that something is being done because it is a fundamental belief.

following precepts

This alternative conveys the act of adhering to established rules or guidelines derived from moral or ethical standards.

FAQs

How can I use "by principle" in a sentence?

You can use "by principle" to describe an action or decision that is based on a moral or ethical code. For example, "He refused to compromise "by principle", even when faced with pressure."

What phrases are similar to "by principle"?

Similar phrases include "on principle", "according to principles", or "guided by principles".

What's the difference between "by principle" and "in principle"?

"By principle" means acting according to a specific rule or belief, whereas "in principle" means theoretically or generally. For example, "By principle, he always tells the truth", versus "In principle, the plan seems sound."

Is it more common to say "on principle" or "by principle"?

Both ""by principle"" and ""on principle"" are correct and used, but "on principle" may be slightly more common depending on the context and region.