overriding principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overriding principle" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means a fundamental or most important principle that takes precedence over all others. Example: In our company, the overriding principle is to always put customer satisfaction above profits.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Our overriding principle will be speed, speed, speed".

The New Yorker

Despite the obvious difference, there remains one overriding principle that commonly informs our approaches to both.

The Guardian

Our white paper frames this as a single, overriding principle for the NHS.

The Guardian - Opinion

"As an overriding principle, I do not believe in prosecuting poverty," he told a weekly newspaper, The St . LouisAmerican.

The New York Times

China's overriding principle on North Korea is to avoid actions that would lead to instability there, analysts say.

The New York Times

But by the time Ronald Reagan became President the overriding principle that had guided their actions at the O.E.O.

The New Yorker

The overriding principle of feminism is equality, and those with power helping raise the bar for those without.

The Guardian

But the overriding principle Sheikh imparts, the one that informs everything else, is that charismatic people project their own value while simultaneously making others feel valued.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But such minute distinctions are secondary to the overriding principle emphasized to referees: to not blow the whistle for offenses deemed trifling.

The New York Times - Sports

Is it possible that if parliament went too far, the courts could use that overriding principle to overrule their former masters?

The Guardian

Younis considers intersectionality the overriding principle for today's feminists, and Ali says she constantly tries to check her privilege, to recognise how hierarchies of power are constructed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "overriding principle", ensure it's clear what other considerations it supersedes to provide clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid using "overriding principle" for minor or subjective preferences; reserve it for truly fundamental and universally applicable rules.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overriding principle" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it identifies the most important or fundamental rule that governs a situation or decision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "overriding principle" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that signifies the most important guiding rule or consideration in a given context. As Ludwig AI points out, it's used to emphasize priorities, justify decisions, and explain fundamental rules across various fields. While versatile, it tends to appear more frequently in neutral registers such as news and academic writing. Remember to reserve its use for truly essential considerations and ensure its meaning is clearly understood by the reader. Alternatives such as "primary directive" or "core principle" can be used to add nuance or tailor the expression to a particular situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Core principle

A basic and essential concept forming the foundation of a system or belief.

Fundamental rule

Stresses the basic regulation or guideline that must be followed.

Primary directive

Emphasizes a command or instruction that takes precedence over other considerations.

Ultimate consideration

Emphasizes the final and most important factor to be taken into account.

Principal foundation

Highlights the main support or basis upon which something is built.

Key tenet

Focuses on a core belief or doctrine that is fundamental to a system or philosophy.

Governing factor

Focuses on the element that controls or directs a situation.

Guiding philosophy

Highlights the set of beliefs that influence actions and decisions.

Central concept

Highlights the main idea or notion upon which something is based.

Cardinal virtue

Highlights an essential moral quality.

FAQs

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

Use "overriding principle" to highlight the most important factor or rule that should be considered above all others in a particular situation. For example: "The "core principle" is to prioritize safety."

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

Alternatives include "primary directive", "key tenet", or "fundamental rule", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "overriding principle" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "overriding principle" may sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Consider using simpler terms like "main thing" or "most important rule" instead.

What is the difference between "overriding principle" and "general guideline"?

An "overriding principle" is a fundamental rule that must always be followed, whereas a "general guideline" is a recommendation that can be adapted based on circumstances. The "fundamental rule" always takes precedence.