underlying principle

USAGE SUMMARY

'underlying principle' is a correct and usable part of speech in written English.
You can use it to refer to an often unstated basic idea or rule that governs or influences a particular situation. For example, "The underlying principle of this law is to protect vulnerable members of society."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The underlying principle was simple.

The New York Times

"Apres nous le deluge" was the underlying principle.

The New York Times

First, identifying the underlying principle isn't a trivial matter.

Harvard Business Review

The underlying principle is known as the disposable soma.

The Economist

The underlying principle is that many hands make light work.

The Economist

This sort of blurring could essentially defeat the underlying principle behind the war on terror.

The New York Times

Trading itself still takes place on this underlying principle, albeit with better checks and regulations.

The Guardian - Opinion

Still there is a difference between an underlying principle and specific proposal".

The New York Times - Books

Or is it a clue to some underlying principle that we haven't yet worked out?

The Guardian

"That kind of customer focus is an underlying principle of Six Sigma".

The New York Times

Freedom to contract is not spelled out explicitly but is an underlying principle in many provisions.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "underlying principle", ensure that you clearly articulate what that principle is and how it influences the subject you're discussing.

Common error

Avoid using "underlying principle" without specifying what the principle actually is. A vague reference diminishes the phrase's impact and can confuse readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underlying principle" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a fundamental concept or basis that explains or governs something, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

23%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "underlying principle" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote a foundational concept or basis. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is frequently employed across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. It serves to clarify or justify an idea or system. When using "underlying principle", be sure to clearly articulate the principle itself to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "foundational concept" or "central tenet" can be considered for nuanced expression. This analysis provides practical guidance for effectively incorporating the phrase into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary basis

Focuses on the foundation or groundwork of something.

foundational concept

Focuses on the concept being the basis or foundation.

central tenet

Stresses the importance of the principle as a key belief or doctrine.

essential concept

Focuses on the concept being fundamentally important.

core belief

Emphasizes the belief aspect as a central tenet.

fundamental truth

Highlights the truth or reality that supports something.

key rationale

Emphasizes the reasoning or justification behind something.

basic assumption

Shifts focus to an assumption that serves as the groundwork.

governing idea

Highlights how the principle controls or directs something.

root cause

Shifts to the origin or primary reason for something.

FAQs

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

You can use "underlying principle" to introduce a fundamental concept or rationale. For example, "The "underlying principle" of democracy is equality."

What are some alternatives to "underlying principle"?

Alternatives include "foundational concept", "core belief", or "central tenet", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "underlying principle" or "basic principle"?

"Underlying principle" suggests a more fundamental, perhaps less obvious, basis, while "basic principle" implies a more straightforward, easily understood foundation. The choice depends on the context.

What is the difference between "underlying principle" and "rationale"?

While both relate to reasons, "underlying principle" refers to a fundamental rule or belief, whereas "rationale" is the explanation or justification for a particular action or decision.