foundational principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "foundational principle" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to a key guiding principle that forms the basis for all of your decisions or actions. For example: "Our commitment to environmental sustainability is a foundational principle of our company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Its foundational principle was obedience to government and its edicts and decisions, even on issues of life and death, as a religious and moral obligation.

The Guardian - Opinion

But he is unambiguous about one foundational principle: his ramp-up in production can come about only by eliminating humans from the manufacturing process as much as possible.

The New Yorker

A commitment to greater transparency should not be viewed as a nice-to-have strategy but as a foundational principle for how business and government operate and communicate with the public.

The New York Times

It is about precedent, and the foundational principle of the guaranteed contract – something that the players have fought long and hard to keep sacrosanct, something they watched their counterparts in the NFLPA compromise all too easily in their last round of collective bargaining, and something that should be found in far more places in our society than our just our playing fields.

The Guardian - Sport

Although liberals may oppose the Supreme Court's decision, in truth the foundational principle of neutrality set forth in the ruling will make it harder for religious conservatives (including those on the court) to argue for the constitutionality of school prayer and other state-sponsored support of religion.

The New York Times

A foundational principle of clinical medicine is the importance of individual judgment.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

These are the foundational principles of the Earth Statement.

The Guardian

I do not start with these foundational principles because the court openly disagrees with them.

The New York Times

Buddhism's foundational principles, the Four Noble Truths taught by the Buddha 2,500 years ago, seem well suited to prison life.

The New York Times

Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the Republican leader, called the law "abhorrent to the foundational principles" of the country.

The New York Times - Health

While the demographics unit was officially disbanded in 2014, its findings are still used, critics say, and its foundational principles and methodologies are still utilized and dispensed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "foundational principle" when you need to emphasize the fundamental and unwavering nature of a guiding idea.

Common error

Avoid using "foundational principle" to describe ideas that are merely supportive or beneficial, but not absolutely essential. This can weaken your argument by exaggerating the principle's role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "foundational principle" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies a core idea or belief that underpins a system, argument, or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "foundational principle" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that serves to highlight the core tenets of an idea, system, or argument. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is valid and common across diverse fields like news, science, and business. When writing, remember that you can replace the expression with "core principle", "basic tenet", or "fundamental concept" to adjust emphasis or formality. Always ensure the principle is genuinely fundamental to avoid weakening your argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core principle

Emphasizes the central and essential nature of the principle.

basic tenet

Focuses on the principle as a belief or doctrine.

fundamental concept

Highlights the conceptual and intellectual aspect of the principle.

underlying principle

Stresses the principle as the base upon which something is built.

key principle

Highlights the importance and significance of the principle.

central idea

Focuses on the main thought or concept.

primary rule

Emphasizes the guiding nature of the principle.

essential element

Highlights the indispensable nature of the principle.

cornerstone principle

Emphasizes the importance of the principle as a base.

guiding principle

Highlights how the principle directs action or thought.

FAQs

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

You can use "foundational principle" to describe a core belief or concept upon which a system or idea is based. For example: "Respect for individual rights is a "foundational principle" of democracy."

What are some alternatives to "foundational principle"?

Alternatives to "foundational principle" include "core principle", "basic tenet", or "fundamental concept". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "foundational principle" or "fundamental principle"?

"Foundational principle" and "fundamental principle" are largely interchangeable. "Foundational" emphasizes the idea of a base or foundation, while "fundamental" stresses the essential nature of the principle.

What makes a principle "foundational"?

A principle is considered "foundational" when it is essential and indispensable for the existence, stability, or proper functioning of something else. It's a core element upon which everything else depends.