in principle — used to say that something is theoretically possible or correct, though it may not happen in practice
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: used to say that something is theoretically possible or correct, though it may not happen in practice
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪn ˈprɪnsəpəl/
Example Sentences
- The teacher agreed in principle to extend the deadline, but warned it might not happen again.
- My diet plan works perfectly in principle, but in practice, pizza always wins.
- In principle, I support early morning exercise, but my bed disagrees with this principle.
in principle
ADVERB[/ɪn ˈprɪnsəpəl/]
used to say that something is theoretically possible or correct, though it may not happen in practice
used to say that something is theoretically possible or correct, though it may not happen in practice
In principle, a principled principal is invincible!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'principium' meaning 'beginning' or 'foundation,' which derives from 'princeps' (first, chief). The phrase emerged in English by the 16th century as a translation of Latin 'in principio' to express theoretical or foundational concepts.
Breakdown
in (preposition, from Latin) + principle (from Latin principium = first/foundation) = in principle (theoretically, in concept)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The teacher agreed in principle to extend the deadline, but warned it might not happen again.”
“My diet plan works perfectly in principle, but in practice, pizza always wins.”
“In principle, I support early morning exercise, but my bed disagrees with this principle.”
“The company accepts the proposal in principle, pending further review.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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