the principle is to

USAGE SUMMARY

"the principle is to" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It can be used to express a guiding rule or belief that someone should follow or adhere to. Here are some examples: 1. The principle is to always treat others with kindness and respect. 2. Our company's guiding principle is to prioritize customer satisfaction above all else. 3. In this class, the principle is to show up on time and be prepared for each lesson. 4. When facing a difficult decision, the principle is to listen to your intuition. 5. The school's discipline code operates on the principle that actions have consequences.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The principle is to be transparent.

Independent

He declares firmly that "the principle is to avoid historical re-enactment".

The Guardian

"The principle is to encourage comment under real names," he said.

The Guardian

The principle is to build with a goal of learning quickly and iterating fast: demonstrating customer interest instead of building the finished article immediately.

The Guardian

Scenes in my plays often vary in style - the principle is to write a scene in the way that dramatises its action best; if it comes out farcical, or as a serious argument, so be it.

The Guardian - Books

The principle is to have a common binding agreement to control the spread of arms: 1500 people a day die through armed violence and there were two bullets produced in the world per person last year.

The Guardian - Sport

I think the principle is to stay alive and to do plays and to do them free and what you have to do to accommodate it, you have to do".

The New York Times

With patents still pending, he is cagey about the details, but the principle is to trap relevant molecules using columns made of metal or silica that are the width of a human hair.

The Economist

The principle is to prepare semitransparent devices and measure EQE from the semitransparent top contact [74].

Nano-Micro Letters

The principle is to show the images with a real-time adjustment to observe cephalogyric motion.

Insights into Imaging

The principle is to localize two rays symmetrically positioned around the nominal AoA.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the principle is to", ensure that the subsequent verb phrase clearly articulates the core guiding concept or action. Prioritize clarity and directness.

Common error

Avoid using abstract or overly complex language after "the principle is to". The statement should be easily understood and actionable, not a convoluted philosophical concept.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the principle is to" functions as an introductory phrase to articulate a core guiding concept, belief, or fundamental rule. Ludwig's AI analysis confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the principle is to" serves as a powerful introductory phrase for articulating core guiding concepts or rules. As verified by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable, particularly in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, prioritize clarity and ensure that the subsequent statement provides a clear and actionable guideline. Related phrases like "the idea is to" or "the goal is to" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the intended emphasis. Steer clear of vagueness to make the most of this impactful phrase. By following best practices, writers can avoid common errors and effectively communicate fundamental guidelines across diverse settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the idea is to

Focus shifts from a guiding rule to a general notion or concept as the basis for action.

the aim is to

Highlights the intended outcome or objective.

the goal is to

Emphasizes the desired result or achievement.

the objective is to

Focuses on a specific, measurable target.

the purpose is to

Emphasizes the reason or intention behind an action.

the intention is to

Highlights the planned or intended course of action.

the point is to

Emphasizes the key message or essence.

the key is to

Identifies the most crucial element for success.

the rule is to

Focuses on a specific guideline or regulation.

the guideline is to

Emphasizes a recommended practice or procedure.

FAQs

How can I use "the principle is to" in a sentence?

Use "the principle is to" to introduce a fundamental rule or guideline. For example, "The principle is to always double-check your work before submitting it."

What are some alternatives to "the principle is to"?

You can use phrases like "the idea is to", "the goal is to", or "the objective is to" to express similar concepts.

Is "the principle is to" formal or informal?

The phrase "the principle is to" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the overall tone and subject matter.

What's the difference between "the principle is to" and "the goal is to"?

"The principle is to" emphasizes a guiding rule or belief, while "the goal is to" focuses on a specific desired outcome or achievement. The choice depends on whether you're highlighting a fundamental guideline or a target to be reached.