unifying principle

USAGE SUMMARY

"unifying principle" is a valid phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to a concept that serves to bring structure, order, or cohesion to a group, idea, or situation. For example, "The unifying principle of the organization was to ensure that no one was left behind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The unifying principle is excess.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This is, however, the only unifying principle at work.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Leonard said the unifying principle was, essentially, joy.

The New York Times

The petition affirms that evolution is "a vital, well-supported, unifying principle of the biological sciences".

The New York Times - Science

It remains just as much of a unifying principle now as it was back then.

The Guardian

So is there, in the midst of all this, any consensus, any unifying principle?

The New York Times - Books

Successful gardens are almost always based on a unifying principle or principles.

The New York Times

The sole unifying principle is that they dance to end violence against women.

The Guardian

The Human Brain Project, he said, will provide a "unifying principle" for scientists to rally around.

The New York Times - Science

In his book of philosophical fragments, Constructions, Frayn wrote: "A man dominates his environment by establishing a unifying principle - himself".

The Guardian

Van's particular genius was to create a single, unifying principle that connects every Cast Member with our Guests' emotional aspirations.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unifying principle", ensure that the principle genuinely connects all elements it is intended to unify. A weak or superficial connection can undermine the concept's effectiveness.

Common error

Avoid using "unifying principle" to describe a common trait that is trivial or irrelevant to the context. The principle should be significant and meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unifying principle" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as a subject complement or object, identifying a central concept that provides cohesion or structure. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unifying principle" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to a central concept or idea that brings cohesion to disparate elements. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse fields. The analysis reveals that "unifying principle" frequently appears in news, scientific, and encyclopedia contexts, highlighting its role in establishing coherence and clarifying relationships. When using this phrase, ensure that the principle genuinely connects the intended elements and that it is significant and meaningful to the context. Alternative phrases such as "central theme" or "underlying concept" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental concept

Stresses the basic and essential nature of the principle.

overarching idea

Implies a comprehensive concept that encompasses various aspects.

organizing idea

Focuses on the principle's role in structuring or arranging elements.

central theme

Focuses on the core subject or idea, rather than a guiding rule.

integrative concept

Highlights the principle's ability to combine different parts into a whole.

connecting thread

Stresses the element that links disparate parts together.

underlying concept

Highlights the foundational idea upon which something is based.

common denominator

Emphasizes a shared characteristic or element among different entities.

guiding philosophy

Emphasizes the role of the principle as a set of beliefs directing behavior.

core belief

Highlights a fundamental conviction or value that guides actions and decisions.

FAQs

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

You can use "unifying principle" to describe a central idea or concept that ties together different elements, such as "The "unifying principle" of the project was sustainability".

What is a good alternative to "unifying principle"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "central theme", "common denominator", or "underlying concept".

Is it correct to say "a principle that unifies" instead of "unifying principle"?

Yes, "a principle that unifies" is grammatically correct and conveys a similar meaning to "unifying principle". The choice depends on the desired emphasis and sentence structure.

What is the difference between "unifying principle" and "guiding principle"?

"Unifying principle" refers to something that brings cohesion, while "guiding principle" suggests a rule or belief that directs action. They are similar but emphasize different aspects.