general principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general principle" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to refer to a broad notion or idea that guides or influences decision-making. For example, "We followed the general principle that everyone should be treated fairly and with respect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Yes, as a general principle, says Beddington.

The Guardian

The general principle betrayed South here.

The New York Times - Arts

That's the general principle that I support and believe in".

The New York Times

The regulations restate the general principle that nature comes first.

The New York Times

The "general principle" seems to now be applied selectively.

The Guardian - Opinion

Therefore, we think that this is a general principle".

The Guardian

She is certainly right about the general principle.

The Economist

I know that as a general principle, I avoid myself.

Independent

I was making a point of general principle, trying to be public-spirited.

The Guardian - Opinion

For this reason, an anti-Beps directive should set a general principle of effective taxation".

The Guardian

The same general principle is used that planes employ in the air.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "general principle", ensure that you provide specific examples or context to illustrate how the principle applies in practice. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on the "general principle" without acknowledging exceptions or nuances. Recognize that real-world situations often require a more tailored approach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general principle" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It refers to a fundamental concept, rule, or belief that serves as a basis for reasoning or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "general principle" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that conveys a fundamental concept or guideline. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it serves to introduce a guiding idea applicable across diverse contexts, predominantly in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. When employing "general principle", ensure to provide specific examples to avoid overgeneralization and enhance clarity. Alternatives such as "basic tenet" or "underlying concept" may be suitable depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

basic tenet

Replaces 'principle' with 'tenet', implying a core belief or doctrine, slightly more formal.

fundamental rule

Substitutes 'principle' with 'rule', suggesting a more rigid and less flexible guideline.

underlying concept

Focuses on the conceptual basis rather than the practical application of the principle.

overarching idea

Highlights the all-encompassing nature of the principle, emphasizing its breadth.

core belief

Emphasizes the belief-driven aspect of the principle, implying a value or conviction.

guiding philosophy

Implies a more abstract and theoretical foundation for decision-making.

standard practice

Shifts the focus to established routines and procedures rather than underlying ideas.

accepted norm

Highlights the socially agreed-upon nature of the principle.

established convention

Focuses on the traditional and widely recognized aspect of the principle.

prevailing wisdom

Emphasizes the widely accepted and time-tested nature of the principle.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "general principle" in a sentence?

To use "general principle" effectively, introduce it as a foundational concept before applying it to specific cases. For example: "As a "general principle", we prioritize customer satisfaction, which guides our decision-making in service interactions."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "general principle"?

You can use alternatives like "basic tenet", "fundamental rule", or "underlying concept" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a general principle" or just "general principle"?

Both are correct. "A general principle" emphasizes that it's one among many, while "general principle" can refer to a main or overarching idea. The choice depends on the specific context.

What is the difference between "general principle" and "specific rule"?

A "general principle" is a broad guideline applicable in many situations, while a "specific rule" is a precise instruction for a particular scenario. "General principles" provide flexibility; "specific rules" offer certainty.