on principle
idiom
: because of one's beliefs
She refused on principle to give toy guns to the children.
Examples of on principle in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Bellwald’s conviction about rebuilding was based in part on principle.
—
Daniel A. Gross, New Yorker, 27 Aug. 2025
The Pentagon has stated that its comprehensive freedom of navigation operations are conducted in an even-handed manner, challenging claims based on principle rather than on the identity of the coastal state asserting them, including those of allies and partners.
—Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Aug. 2025
Sara and Xanthi rejected the house on principle.
—Kayla Levy, Curbed, 4 Aug. 2025
Some have learned to surrender to unrealistic demands when their consciences scream for acting on principle.
—Chip Bell, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for on principle
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Daniel A. Gross, New Yorker, 27 Aug. 2025
The Pentagon has stated that its comprehensive freedom of navigation operations are conducted in an even-handed manner, challenging claims based on principle rather than on the identity of the coastal state asserting them, including those of allies and partners.
—Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Aug. 2025
Sara and Xanthi rejected the house on principle.
—Kayla Levy, Curbed, 4 Aug. 2025
Some have learned to surrender to unrealistic demands when their consciences scream for acting on principle.
—Chip Bell, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for on principle
Cite this Entry
“On principle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20principle. Accessed 19 Sep. 2025.
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