primary principle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "primary principle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the most important or fundamental rule or concept in a particular context. Example: "The primary principle of our organization is to prioritize sustainability in all our operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

These voters are nothing if not principled, and their primary principle is that they should win.

The New York Times

But housing officials said that would be unfair, since a primary principle of the Section 8 program is to allow recipients to move wherever they choose.

The New York Times

Once society forfeits the primary principle that the lives of the innocent are inviolable, as has been done in legal abortion, any killing may be justified.

The New York Times

"We welcome the fact that these remain focused on the primary principle of tackling extreme poverty and supporting the economic aspirations of developing countries, while ensuring the new global goals are delivered in the most effective possible way".

The Guardian

In Physics 2.3, Aristotle says that the causes include the primary principle of motion and coming to rest.

SEP

This axiom points directly to the cause of law, and is rightly laid down as the primary principle" (Chap. II).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Patel says building a team has a few primary principles to help guide the product and team development.

TechCrunch

This ethics theory is known as result-based theory which highlights two (2) primary principles.

Robotics and Biomimetics

To establish that atoms are the primary principles or elements of matter, Gassendi draws deeply on the well of ancient atomist argument.

SEP

The development of this algorithm corresponds to three primary principles: (i) one single framework, (ii) robust operation, and (iii) individual accountability.

Electric Power Systems Research

On this foundation, we discuss six primary principles and propose a number of ways of enhancing and applying GI in the future.

Ecological Indicators

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "primary principle", ensure it genuinely represents the most fundamental concept, not just an important one. Consider whether "core" or "fundamental" might be more appropriate for added emphasis.

Common error

Avoid using "primary principle" when referring to a secondary or less impactful rule. Ensure that the principle you're describing is truly the foundation upon which other ideas or actions are based.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary principle" functions as a noun phrase typically used as a subject complement or appositive. Ludwig confirms its correct usage. It serves to identify or describe the most important underlying concept or rule within a given context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "primary principle" serves as a crucial tool for designating the most fundamental rule or concept within a given subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and frequently employed across various domains, including science, news and media, and formal business settings. While alternatives like "fundamental rule" or "core tenet" exist, each carries subtle differences in emphasis. When using "primary principle", ensure it truly represents the core foundation. Overall, "primary principle" is a reliable expression for establishing the bedrock concepts in a clear and concise manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core tenet

Emphasizes a fundamental belief or doctrine, implying greater importance than just a principle.

fundamental rule

Highlights the prescriptive nature of a principle, focusing on its role as a guideline.

basic concept

Stresses the conceptual aspect of the principle, suitable when referring to understanding a subject.

key guideline

Emphasizes the guiding aspect of the principle, useful in practical contexts.

central idea

Focuses on the core idea that governs something, appropriate for abstract topics.

main premise

Highlights the foundational assumption of an argument or system.

governing factor

Emphasizes the controlling influence of the principle.

chief consideration

Highlights the importance of the principle when making decisions.

first command

Implies a hierarchical order and strong imperative nature.

principal aspect

Emphasizes a specific element of something.

FAQs

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

Use "primary principle" to introduce a fundamental concept. For example: "The "primary principle" of democracy is the rule of law."

What are some synonyms for "primary principle"?

Alternatives include "fundamental principle", "core tenet", or "basic concept" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "primary principle"?

While "principle" itself implies importance, "primary principle" emphasizes that it is the most foundational and important one among potentially many.

What's the difference between a "primary principle" and a "secondary principle"?

A ""primary principle"" is the most fundamental and foundational concept, while a secondary principle is derived from or supports the primary one.