as in rule
something (such as a belief or value) that helps a person know what is right and wrong and that influences their actions
He refused to participate on principle. It is against her principles to steal.
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Recent Examples of principle
My administration will ensure that all departmental policies reflect this delineation by emphasizing the highest standards of professionalism in all interactions and by rigorously respecting principles of due process and human rights.
—
Charlotte Observer, 20 Feb. 2026
The same principles that made American steel manufacturing world-class can make American solar recycling world-class.
—Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 20 Feb. 2026
Business ethics refers to the principles and standards that guide decision-making and behavior in the workplace, while integrity involves consistently acting in accordance with those ethical principles, demonstrating honesty, trustworthiness and moral uprightness in actions.
—Nancy Pulciano, Rolling Stone, 20 Feb. 2026
But Pritzker laid out that first principle, as did others in Springfield.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for principle
Charlotte Observer, 20 Feb. 2026
The same principles that made American steel manufacturing world-class can make American solar recycling world-class.
—Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 20 Feb. 2026
Business ethics refers to the principles and standards that guide decision-making and behavior in the workplace, while integrity involves consistently acting in accordance with those ethical principles, demonstrating honesty, trustworthiness and moral uprightness in actions.
—Nancy Pulciano, Rolling Stone, 20 Feb. 2026
But Pritzker laid out that first principle, as did others in Springfield.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for principle
Recent Examples of Synonyms for principle
Noun
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The comments followed controversy over Stephen Colbert's assertions that CBS decided not to air its interview with Talarico because of the rule.—
BrieAnna J. Frank,
USA Today,
20 Feb. 2026
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Venezuelan lawmakers on Thursday passed new legislation that gives amnesty to hundreds of people who were prosecuted or convicted for political reasons during 27 years of authoritarian rule.—
Alessandra Freitas,
CNN Money,
20 Feb. 2026
Noun
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The long-term impact is likely to show up gradually in the types of vehicles that will be produced, rather than a complete abandonment of voluntary emissions standards, complete with redesigns.—
Julian Torres,
CNN Money,
22 Feb. 2026
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The rooms With 188 rooms and suites starting at 380 square feet (generous by Hong Kong standards), comfort doesn’t require an upgrade.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
22 Feb. 2026
Noun
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The bank would only speak hypothetically about when the bank closes accounts and its reasons for closing accounts, citing bank privacy laws.—
Ken Sweet,
Los Angeles Times,
22 Feb. 2026
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One new state law enacted in 2024 set requirements for oil and gas companies to plug certain percentages of their idle wells each year — between 5% and 15% each year at first, but larger shares after 2027.—
Jemma Stephenson,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
21 Feb. 2026
Noun
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It was designed to be upgraded over time, demonstrating its long-term investment value.—
Prabhat Ranjan Mishra,
Interesting Engineering,
23 Feb. 2026
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With each plaintiff loss, the value of future cases could decline, McNally said.—
Clare Duffy,
CNN Money,
22 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Principle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/principle. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026.
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