principle against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "principle against" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a fundamental belief or rule that opposes a particular action or idea. Example: "The organization has a principle against discrimination in any form."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

But, perversely, it balanced the paramountcy principle against parents' rights.

The Guardian - Opinion

We are not in principle against delisting the bears.

The New York Times

Both are eschatological battles for the life principle against the forces of death.

The New York Times - Books

The Democrats are correct to stand firm on principle against them.

The New York Times

The lure of a red box trumps a red-line principle against risking Brexit.

The Guardian - Opinion

The organization can survive and thrive if its members carefully manage one critical paradox: balancing principle against power.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

The case pits anti-discrimination principles against religious freedom.

The New York Times

The ensuing crisis involves the entire community, pitting principles against passion, values against instinct.

The Guardian - Books

MORAL quandaries often pit concerns about principles against concerns about practical consequences.

The New York Times

The argument pits respect for core Western principles against tolerance for other cultures and religions.

The New York Times

The fascination of the book is in the rigid purity of principles, against which human beings tremble, quail and shudder.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "principle against", ensure that the principle is clearly defined and the opposing element is easily understood in the context. This ensures clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "principle against" in overly broad or vague contexts. Always specify what the principle is and what it is specifically opposing to maintain precision and relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principle against" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb, indicating opposition or contradiction to a specific principle. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "principle against" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to convey opposition based on a fundamental belief. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most frequently found in news and media, science, and encyclopedic sources, indicating a neutral to formal register. While versatile, it's important to clearly define the principle and its opposing element to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "opposition to a principle" or "policy against" can offer nuanced variations. Using the phrase thoughtfully ensures precision and enhances the credibility of the statement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

opposition to a principle

Focuses on the act of opposing a principle rather than stating a principle goes against something.

policy against

Suggests a specific rule that prohibits something based on a principle.

a stance against a principle

Emphasizes taking a firm position in disagreement with a principle.

tenet opposed to

Highlights a belief or principle that is in direct conflict with something else.

conviction against

Highlights a deeply held belief that goes against something.

doctrine against

Implies a more formal or established rule that contradicts something.

ideology against

Focuses on a system of beliefs that opposes a specific concept.

rule against

Focuses on a regulation or guideline that prohibits something, stemming from a principle.

precept contrary to

Emphasizes a fundamental rule or directive that goes against something.

standard in opposition to

Indicates a benchmark or criterion that is set against something.

FAQs

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

Use "principle against" to indicate a fundamental belief or rule that opposes a specific action or idea. For example: "The organization has a "principle against" discrimination."

What are some alternatives to using "principle against"?

You can use alternatives like "opposition to a principle", "policy against", or "a stance against a principle" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "principle against" or "opposed to a principle"?

"Principle against" and "opposition to a principle" are both relatively formal. The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey; "principle against" emphasizes the existence of a principle, while "opposition to a principle" stresses the act of opposing.

What does it mean when someone has a "principle against" something?

It means that they have a fundamental belief or moral code that makes them opposed to that thing. It suggests a deep-seated objection rather than a mere preference.