contrary to the principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contrary to the principle" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing situations or actions that go against established principles or rules. Example: "The decision made by the committee was contrary to the principle of fairness that we uphold."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

He asserted that it "would be contrary to the principle of non-interference in internal affairs".

The New York Times

Gagging clauses prevented organisations that received government funding from "doing any form of advocacy, which is contrary to the principle of a free and democratic society", he said.

The Guardian

Such a measure is contrary to the principle of free movement and as such was also not part of the negotiations.

The Guardian

Petitioners further suggest that the second count to monopolize, and the fourth count (to conspire to monopolize), may lead to multiple punishment, contrary to the principle of the Blockburger case.

Cornell University

The airlines complained that the measures had been taken without agreement with other countries in other parts of the world and were contrary to the principle that nations have sovereignty over their airspace.

The New York Times

Led by the Air Transport Association of America, the airlines complained that the measures were adopted without the agreement of other countries and were contrary to the principle that countries had sovereignty over their airspace.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

It is contrary to the principles of beneficence and compassion that doctors must swear to.

The New York Times - Health

That was always a very bad system, contrary to the principles of the BBC.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is contrary to the principles of reason that Pinker claims to champion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Such positions "are extremes totally contrary to the principles of our society".

The New York Times - Books

The decision to disconnect a violent act from its consequences runs contrary to the principles of civil and criminal law".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing this expression with other synonyms to enhance expressiveness and to avoid overuse of a single phrase across the text. See alternatives in the "Related Phrases" for inspiration.

Common error

A common mistake is to apply "contrary to the principle" when the action only superficially seems to conflict with a principle. Ensure that the action fundamentally undermines the core intent of the principle, rather than just differing in approach or outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contrary to the principle" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a verb or noun, indicating a state of opposition or contradiction. As Ludwig AI shows, it's used to express disagreement with established rules or beliefs.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

23%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

8%

Academia

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contrary to the principle" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate opposition or contradiction to a fundamental rule or belief. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. When using this phrase, ensure that the principle you are referencing is well-defined and that the opposing action genuinely undermines its core intent. Consider using alternative phrases to add variety to your writing and avoid overuse. By understanding its function, purpose, and typical usage patterns, you can effectively incorporate "contrary to the principle" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in contradiction of the principle

Uses the more formal term "contradiction" to denote a direct and irreconcilable conflict with the principle.

violating the principle

Directly states that the principle is being broken or disregarded.

running counter to the principle

Uses "running counter" to indicate a direct opposition or movement in the opposite direction of the principle.

inconsistent with the principle

Focuses on the lack of alignment or harmony with the principle.

in opposition to the tenet

Replaces "principle" with "tenet", emphasizing a core belief or doctrine.

not in accordance with the principle

Formally states a lack of conformity or agreement with the principle.

in defiance of the principle

Highlights a deliberate act of resistance or non-compliance with the principle.

at odds with the principle

Emphasizes a state of conflict or disagreement with the principle.

against the grain of the principle

Introduces the idiom "against the grain", suggesting a conflict with the inherent nature of the principle.

transgressing the principle

Indicates a violation or overstepping of the boundaries set by the principle.

FAQs

How can I use "contrary to the principle" in a sentence?

Use "contrary to the principle" to indicate that an action, belief, or statement opposes a fundamental rule or tenet. For example: "The new policy is "contrary to the principle" of equal opportunity."

What are some alternatives to saying "contrary to the principle"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in opposition to the principle", "violating the principle", or "inconsistent with the principle", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "contrary to the principles" instead of "contrary to the principle"?

Yes, both are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Contrary to the principle" refers to a single, specific rule or belief, while "contrary to the principles" refers to a set of rules or beliefs.

What's the difference between "contrary to the principle" and "against the principle"?

While both phrases express opposition, "contrary to the principle" often suggests a more direct violation or contradiction, whereas "against the principle" can imply a more general resistance or disagreement.