principle for

USAGE SUMMARY

"principle for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use "principle for" to refer to an idea, rule, or belief which guides or directs something. Example: We follow the principle for absolute honesty and truthfulness in our business operations.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a principle for them.

The Guardian

"They swapped principle for power.

The Washington Post

It's a guiding principle for Ariel Sharon.

The New York Times - Books

It's a matter of principle for us.

The Guardian

It's an important principle for future administrations".

The New York Times

That was the principle for this".

The Guardian

Inclusion principle for such systems is defined.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Hume found this a good principle for Westminster.

The Guardian

I use the confit principle for chicken thighs.

The New York Times - Food

I can't find a principle for excluding one from another.

The Guardian - Books

"Proof of principle for bioterrorism,'' Coffin called it.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "principle for", ensure the noun it modifies clearly indicates what the principle is guiding or supporting. For instance, 'the guiding "principle for" success' makes the connection explicit.

Common error

Avoid using "principle for" in overly broad contexts. Ensure the principle directly relates to the specific area or action being discussed, rather than a vague or general concept.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principle for" acts as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a noun, indicating the reason, basis, or underlying rule that guides a specific action, decision, or process. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "principle for" is a correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that signifies a guiding rule or rationale. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely applicable. Its primary function is to justify or provide a basis for actions or decisions, making it suitable for various contexts, including news, scientific research, and formal business communications. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure the principle's scope aligns directly with the intended application. Alternatives like "basis for" or "rationale behind" can be considered to refine the meaning further. Overall, "principle for" is a valuable tool for clear and reasoned communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

basis for

Focuses more on the foundational aspect or justification.

rationale behind

Emphasizes the reasoning or logic that supports something.

justification for

Highlights the reasons or evidence to support an action or decision.

foundation for

Stresses the underlying support or groundwork.

reason for

Indicates the cause or explanation for something.

grounds for

Implies a legal or formal basis.

motivation for

Highlights the driving force or incentive.

purpose of

Shifts the focus to the intended aim or objective.

underlying principle of

Emphasizes that a principle supports the foundation of something.

theoretical basis of

Describes a theory related to a system or framework.

FAQs

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

Use "principle for" to introduce a fundamental rule or belief that guides a specific action or decision. For example: 'Honesty is the key "principle for" maintaining strong relationships'.

What are some alternatives to "principle for"?

You can use alternatives such as "basis for", "rationale behind", or "justification for" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say 'principle of' instead of "principle for"?

While 'principle of' refers to a general doctrine or fundamental truth, "principle for" specifies a guideline or rule applied to a particular situation. The choice depends on the intended meaning.

How does the usage of "principle for" differ from "guideline for"?

"Principle for" suggests a more foundational and less flexible rule, whereas "guideline for" indicates a recommended practice that allows for some deviation.