German word

prinzipiell

Pronunciation

IPA/pʁɪnt͡siˈpi̯ɛl/

Meaning

  • adverbbasically

Example

Ich bin prinzipiell damit einverstanden.

I basically agree with that.

Illustration for prinzipiell (basically)

More examples

Die Regel ist prinzipiell in Ordnung, es gibt aber Ausnahmen.

The rule is basically okay, but there are exceptions.

Core concept

A general yes is marked around a rule, while unusual cases remain outside its boundary.

Common phrases

  • prinzipiell in Ordnung sein

    be basically okay

  • prinzipiell dagegen sein

    be basically against it

Similar words

im Prinzip: Showing that something is true as a general principle.
grundsätzlich: Based on a basic policy, idea, or rule.
eigentlich: Referring to the real intention or state behind the surface wording.

Definition in German

Oft als vorsichtige Zustimmung oder allgemeine Feststellung gebraucht, die Einschränkungen zulässt.

Word origin

The German adjective prinzipiell is formed from Prinzip with the suffix -iell, and Prinzip ultimately comes from Latin principium, meaning a beginning or foundation.

Usage tips

  • The phrase 'damit einverstanden sein' uses damit for 'mit diesem' or 'mit dem', so agreement is expressed with mit rather than a direct equivalent of English 'agree to'.

Other meanings

  • in principleadverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Prinzipprinciplenoun
  • prinzipienlosunprincipledadjective

Word lists with this word