French Conversation · Level 32
90 words
French word
principe
Pronunciation
IPA/pʁɛ̃sip/
Meaning
- masculine nounprinciple
Example
Son principe est de respecter les autres.
His principle is to respect other people.
More examples
En principe, je soutiens cette idée.
In principle, I support this idea.
Core concept
A foundation that supports a decision, action, or theory.
Common phrases
en principe
in principle
par principe
on principle
principe fondamental
fundamental principle
Similar words
règle: A rule to follow within a group or situation.
norme: A widely accepted standard in society or an organization.
valeur: An important belief that shapes judgments of right and wrong.
base: A fundamental idea or element that supports other things.
Definition in French
Idée générale ou règle qui sert de base à une action, une décision ou à une théorie.
Word origin
Principe comes from Latin principium, meaning "beginning" or "foundation," and is related to princeps, meaning "first."
Usage tips
- In en principe, the phrase usually presents an expected rule or result, but it can allow for exceptions in practice.