in principle

phrase

: with respect to fundamentals

They accepted the offer in principle.

Examples of in principle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Analysts say that’s partly because the deals are narrow in scope, largely exist only in principle, and don’t apply to existing drugs used by the more than 200 million Americans with commercial or private health insurance. — Stephanie Armour, Miami Herald, 4 Sep. 2026

Hobaiter and Dominy support this idea with half a dozen claims that could, in principle, be tested, lending some scientific credence to the idea that complex human speech was selected for in the warm glow of a crackling campfire. — Mike McRae 02, New Atlas, 3 Sep. 2026

Spurs reached an agreement in principle with Everton on Sunday to sign Iliman Ndiaye and for Richarlison to return to his former club in separate deals. — Jay Harris, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026

The Clippers agreed in principle to trade Leonard to the Raptors for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, a 2027 first-round pick swap and two second-round picks. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 2 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1756, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for in principle

• principal