principled individual

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "principled individual" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who adheres to moral principles and values in their actions and decisions. Example: "She is a principled individual who always stands up for what she believes is right, even in difficult situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

It's not clear whether he has changed his position on either principle now, in the wake of the Paris attacks, albeit that seems highly unlikely for such a consistently principled individual.

TechCrunch

He was basically a very principled individual.

The New York Times

It was a privilege to have such an accomplished and principled individual in our midst.

The New York Times

"I have great respect for the vice president and I think he is a principled individual," he said.

The New York Times

Just having a principled individual in the White House, from the standpoint of spending, would be a powerful message".

The New York Times

In his autobiography in 2000, he acknowledged a fascination with Benito Mussolini, Italy's wartime Fascist leader, and described him as "basically a very principled individual".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Although NGOs vary considerably in size, organization, and approach, they share the basic belief that principled individuals working together can do much to solve human and environmental problems through grassroots organizing, the creative use of information, and sophisticated political strategies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr Di Canio - who has praised former fascist dictator Mussolini as "a very principled ethical individual" who was "deeply misunderstood" - was pictured in 2005 making a raised-arm salute to a group of supporters of Italian club Lazio, where he was playing.

BBC

We will deeply miss this courageous, principled, compassionate individual.

The New York Times

Walter Cronkite was a principled, articulate individual who enriched all our lives.

The New York Times

Judge Sprizzo was a fiercely principled and devoutly religious individual.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "principled individual" when you want to emphasize that someone's actions are consistently guided by a strong moral compass. This phrase conveys respect and admiration for their unwavering commitment to ethical behavior.

Common error

While "principled individual" is generally acceptable, it can sound overly formal or even pompous in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "ethical person" or "person of integrity" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principled individual" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "principled" modifies the noun "individual". It describes a person characterized by strong moral principles, serving to identify and categorize someone based on their ethical standing, as demonstrated in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "principled individual" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes someone who adheres to strong moral principles. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage and provides numerous examples. While the phrase is considered uncommon but not rare, with a preference toward more formal settings, it effectively conveys respect and admiration for ethical behavior. Alternative phrases such as "ethical person" or "person of integrity" can be used in more informal contexts. Ludwig confirms that the use of "principled individual" is deemed acceptable and that it generally enhances the clarity and impact of your writing when you're aiming to highlight someone's unwavering commitment to moral values.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

person of principle

This alternative is a slightly more concise way of expressing the same concept.

principled agent

Highlights the proactive and influential role of the individual adhering to a standard of moral principles.

ethical person

Focuses specifically on adherence to ethical codes and moral standards.

person of integrity

Highlights the consistency and reliability of the person's moral character.

moral agent

Highlights the individual's capacity and responsibility for moral action.

upright citizen

Emphasizes adherence to societal norms and legal standards, adding a civic dimension.

conscientious individual

Emphasizes diligence and a strong sense of responsibility in moral decision-making.

honorable person

Implies a strong sense of personal integrity and adherence to a code of honor.

virtuous individual

Stresses moral excellence and goodness, focusing on inner qualities.

righteous person

Suggests a strong belief in and adherence to a divine or higher moral law.

FAQs

How can I use "principled individual" in a sentence?

You can use "principled individual" to describe someone who consistently acts according to a strong moral code. For example, "She is a "principled individual" who always stands up for what she believes in."

What are some alternatives to "principled individual"?

Alternatives include "ethical person", "person of integrity", or "moral agent". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to be a "principled individual"?

To be a "principled individual" means that someone consistently acts based on a set of strong moral beliefs and values. They prioritize ethical considerations in their decisions and behavior.

Is it better to say "principled person" or "principled individual"?

Both "principled person" and "principled individual" are correct and largely interchangeable. "Principled person" might sound slightly more informal, while "principled individual" could be perceived as slightly more formal, but the difference is minimal.