on principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on principle" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an action or opinion that one holds based on a moral, ethical, or philosophical belief. For example: "I refuse to support this type of behavior on principle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I certainly wasn't going to on principle.

The Guardian - Money

We object on principle.

The New York Times

I left on principle.

The New York Times

Others stood on principle.

The New York Times

"I kidnapped it on principle," he explains.

Independent

Some of them like parité on principle.

The New Yorker

I refuse to go on principle.

The New Yorker

He would stand alone on principle.

The New York Times - Sports

And he did it on principle.

The New Yorker

Some voters disapprove of recalls on principle.

The New Yorker

"We support the initiative on principle.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on principle" to clearly convey that a decision or action is rooted in a fundamental belief or moral standard, ensuring your audience understands the motivation behind it.

Common error

While both phrases exist, "on principle" means acting according to a belief, whereas "in principle" means agreeing with an idea in theory but not necessarily in practice. Using the wrong phrase can significantly alter your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on principle" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that an action or decision is based on a moral, ethical, or philosophical belief. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

14%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on principle" is a prepositional phrase that indicates that an action or decision is based on a deeply held moral, ethical, or philosophical belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in News & Media. When using "on principle", make sure to differentiate it from "in principle", which has a different meaning. Related phrases include "as a matter of principle" and "out of principle". By understanding its proper usage and context, you can effectively communicate that your actions are guided by strong convictions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a matter of principle

Emphasizes the importance of the principle guiding the action or decision.

out of principle

Highlights that the action is a direct result of adhering to a specific principle.

based on conviction

Focuses on the strength of belief that underlies the action.

guided by ethics

Specifically mentions the ethical considerations influencing the decision.

according to my beliefs

Personalizes the principle, emphasizing individual values.

following my conscience

Highlights the moral compass directing the action.

as a point of honor

Suggests that the action is essential to maintain one's integrity.

due to moral code

Directly references a structured set of moral guidelines.

in accordance with my values

Emphasizes the personal value system that is the base of the action.

from a standpoint of integrity

Highlights the moral uprightness motivating the action.

FAQs

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

You can use "on principle" to indicate that your actions or beliefs are based on a moral or ethical code. For example, "I refuse to support that initiative "on principle" because I believe it is unethical".

What is the difference between "on principle" and "in principle"?

"On principle" means that something is done based on a moral or ethical belief. "In principle" means that something is agreed upon in theory but may not be put into practice. For example, "in principle, I agree with the idea, but I'm not sure it will work in reality" versus "I oppose it "on principle"".

What can I say instead of "on principle"?

You can use alternatives like "as a matter of principle", "out of principle", or "based on conviction" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "stand on principle"?

Yes, "stand on principle" is a correct and commonly used phrase. It means to firmly advocate for something based on one's beliefs or moral code. For instance, "Norman continues to "stand on principle" and fight against government's treatment of Aborigines".