a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct; their principles of composition characterized all their works

[ Syn: rule ]

a rule or standard especially of good behavior; a man of principle; he will not violate his principles'

a basic truth or law or assumption; the principles of democracy'

a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system; the principle of the conservation of mass; the principle of jet propulsion; the right-hand rule for inductive fields

[ Syn: rule ]

rule of personal conduct

[ Syn: precept ]

(law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature); the rationale for capital punishment; the principles of internal-combustion engines

[ Syn: rationale ]