question of principle

USAGE SUMMARY

"question of principle" is a perfectly acceptable term in written English.
For example: "The court had to determine whether Mary's actions violated the company's policy, a question of principle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

It was really a question of principle.

The New York Times

I think there's a question of principle.

The Guardian

This is a question of principle.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was a question of principle, of sticking to what had been agreed.

The Guardian - Sport

I don't see any other explanation for it, because it's not a question of principle.

The New Yorker

The family have maintained that it is not about the money but a question of principle.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

There are questions of principle here that require answers.

The Guardian - Opinion

This new political reality raises important questions of principle.

Columbia University

The growing tendency of its backbenchers to take a stand on questions of principle has been reinforced.

Independent

The German counter-proposals, it is repeated, "raise certain questions of principle and will necessitate a serious and minute examination".

The New York Times

Probably over questions of principle, the self-willed emperor quarrelled with the aging Gisela during her last years.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "question of principle", ensure the context clearly identifies the principle at stake and why it is being questioned. Be specific about the core values or beliefs being challenged.

Common error

Avoid using "question of principle" in vague situations. Always specify the exact principle being debated; otherwise, the statement loses its impact and can appear ambiguous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "question of principle" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object. It introduces a fundamental disagreement or ethical consideration, often leading to debate. As Ludwig demonstrates, it’s used to frame discussions where core beliefs are at stake.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

25%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "question of principle" is a noun phrase used to denote situations where core values or fundamental beliefs are being challenged or debated. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in news, academic, and scientific contexts. It serves to emphasize the importance of ethical or philosophical implications and is often employed to frame discussions around morality. While "question of principle" is a robust and valuable phrase, alternatives like "issue of principle" or "matter of principle" may provide slightly different nuances depending on the intended emphasis. Remember to specify the exact principle to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

issue of principle

Focuses on the debated or contested nature of the principle.

matter of principle

Emphasizes the importance of adhering to a specific principle.

point of principle

Highlights a specific aspect or element of the principle.

subject of principle

Shifts the focus to the principle itself as the central topic.

ethical consideration

Broader term encompassing moral and ethical aspects.

moral imperative

Conveys a sense of duty or obligation regarding a moral principle.

moral question

Highlights the ethical or moral dilemma involved.

ethical dilemma

Emphasizes the conflict between different ethical considerations.

philosophical question

Relates to the broader philosophical implications.

fundamental principle

Highlights the foundational nature of the principle in question.

FAQs

How can I use "question of principle" in a sentence?

You can use "question of principle" to introduce a debate or disagreement centered on a fundamental belief or value. For example, "The debate over data privacy is a "question of principle" involving individual rights and corporate interests".

What's the difference between "issue of principle" and "question of principle"?

"Issue of principle" often implies a contentious point that is already under debate, while "question of principle" can introduce a new or existing debate. Both highlight the importance of the underlying belief or value.

Are there alternatives to "question of principle"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "matter of principle", "point of principle", or "ethical consideration" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "question of principle" in writing?

It's appropriate when discussing situations where core values, ethics, or fundamental beliefs are being challenged or debated. This phrase is suitable for academic, journalistic, and professional contexts.