Top 52 Slang For Principle – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to navigating the ever-evolving landscape of slang, staying up-to-date is key. Join us as we unveil the latest and most popular slang terms for “principle.” From the streets to social media, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive list that will keep you in the know and ahead of the curve. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to level up your slang game and impress your peers with your newfound linguistic prowess!

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1. Rule of thumb

This phrase is used to describe a practical and approximate principle that is easy to remember and apply. It is often based on experience or common sense.

  • For example, “As a rule of thumb, you should save at least 10% of your income for retirement.”
  • In a cooking discussion, someone might say, “A good rule of thumb is to cook pasta for about 8-10 minutes.”
  • A financial advisor might advise, “As a rule of thumb, your housing expenses should not exceed 30% of your monthly income.”

2. Golden rule

This phrase refers to the principle of treating others with kindness, fairness, and respect. It is often described as a moral guideline for interpersonal relationships.

  • For instance, a parent might remind their child, “Remember the golden rule: treat your classmates how you want to be treated.”
  • In a discussion about workplace etiquette, someone might say, “The golden rule applies here – treat your colleagues with respect.”
  • A teacher might emphasize, “In this classroom, we follow the golden rule and treat each other with kindness.”

3. Code of conduct

A code of conduct refers to a set of rules or guidelines that outline expected behavior or ethical standards in a particular setting, such as a workplace, organization, or community.

  • For example, “The company has a strict code of conduct that all employees must adhere to.”
  • In a discussion about professional ethics, someone might say, “Engineers have a code of conduct that emphasizes safety and integrity.”
  • A school might have a code of conduct that includes rules about behavior, dress code, and academic honesty.

4. Moral compass

The term “moral compass” is used to describe an individual’s internal sense of right and wrong, which guides their ethical decision-making.

  • For instance, “She always follows her moral compass and stands up for what she believes is right.”
  • In a discussion about leadership, someone might say, “A good leader has a strong moral compass and makes decisions based on their values.”
  • A parent might teach their child, “Your moral compass will help you make good choices and treat others with kindness.”

5. Ethical standard

Ethical standard refers to a set of principles or guidelines that determine what is considered morally right or wrong in a particular context or profession.

  • For example, “Journalists have ethical standards that require them to report accurate and unbiased information.”
  • In a discussion about medical research, someone might say, “Ethical standards dictate that participants must give informed consent and be protected from harm.”
  • A business might have ethical standards that include fair treatment of employees, responsible environmental practices, and transparency in financial reporting.

6. Core belief

A core belief is a fundamental belief or principle that is central to a person’s values, identity, or worldview.

  • For example, “Honesty is a core belief for me, and I strive to always tell the truth.”
  • In a discussion about personal values, someone might say, “One of my core beliefs is that everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities.”
  • A person might express their core belief by stating, “My core belief is that kindness and compassion can change the world.”

7. Standard operating procedure

A standard operating procedure (SOP) refers to a set of step-by-step instructions or guidelines that dictate how a particular task or process should be performed.

  • For instance, in a workplace, there might be an SOP for handling customer complaints.
  • In a military context, an SOP might outline the procedures for setting up a defensive perimeter.
  • A person might refer to an established protocol by saying, “According to our SOP, we need to follow these specific steps.”

8. Fundamental truth

A fundamental truth refers to a basic principle or concept that is considered to be universally true or foundational.

  • For example, “One fundamental truth of human nature is that we all seek happiness.”
  • In a philosophical discussion, someone might argue, “The pursuit of truth is a fundamental truth in the quest for knowledge.”
  • A person might state a fundamental truth by saying, “One fundamental truth in relationships is that trust is essential.”

9. Key doctrine

A key doctrine refers to a fundamental teaching or principle that is considered to be essential to a particular philosophy, belief system, or organization.

  • For instance, in a religious context, a key doctrine might be the belief in a higher power.
  • In a political discussion, someone might reference a key doctrine by saying, “The separation of powers is a key doctrine in our democratic system.”
  • A person might highlight an essential teaching by stating, “One key doctrine of Buddhism is the concept of non-attachment.”

10. Main tenet

A main tenet refers to a primary principle or belief that serves as a guiding principle for a particular philosophy, belief system, or organization.

  • For example, “One of the main tenets of feminism is gender equality.”
  • In a discussion about personal values, someone might say, “One of my main tenets is treating others with respect and empathy.”
  • A person might express a primary principle by stating, “The main tenet of environmentalism is the preservation of the natural world.”

11. Basic rule

A basic rule refers to a fundamental guideline or principle that serves as a foundation for a system or behavior. It is a simple and essential rule that is widely accepted and followed.

  • For example, in a classroom, a teacher might say, “One basic rule is to raise your hand before speaking.”
  • When discussing driving, someone might mention, “One basic rule of the road is to always yield to pedestrians.”
  • In a workplace, a supervisor might remind employees, “One basic rule is to treat everyone with respect and professionalism.”

12. Guiding light

A guiding light refers to a core principle or value that serves as a guiding force in one’s decisions and actions. It is a principle that provides direction and helps navigate through challenges or dilemmas.

  • For instance, someone might say, “Honesty is my guiding light in all aspects of life.”
  • When discussing leadership, a manager might mention, “Integrity and accountability are our guiding lights.”
  • In a personal development context, someone might share, “My guiding light is to always strive for personal growth and self-improvement.”

13. Key principle

A key principle refers to an essential belief or value that is considered crucial in a particular context or field. It is a principle that is seen as foundational and integral to the overall framework.

  • For example, in a business setting, someone might say, “One key principle of our company is to prioritize customer satisfaction.”
  • When discussing ethics, a philosopher might argue, “Respect for autonomy is a key principle in medical ethics.”
  • In a political context, a politician might emphasize, “Transparency and accountability are key principles of our democracy.”

14. Central tenet

A central tenet refers to a core doctrine or principle that is considered fundamental and essential to a belief system or ideology. It is a principle that forms the basis of a particular philosophy or set of values.

  • For instance, someone might say, “Equality is a central tenet of social justice.”
  • When discussing a religion, a follower might mention, “Compassion is a central tenet of our faith.”
  • In a philosophical debate, someone might argue, “The pursuit of happiness is a central tenet of human existence.”

15. Primary value

A primary value refers to a core belief or principle that holds significant importance and serves as a guiding force in one’s life or decision-making. It is a value that is considered fundamental and central to one’s identity.

  • For example, someone might say, “Honesty is my primary value, and I strive to be truthful in all situations.”
  • When discussing personal relationships, a person might mention, “Trust is a primary value for me in any friendship.”
  • In a professional context, someone might state, “Integrity is a primary value in our organization, and we hold ourselves to high ethical standards.”

16. Essential doctrine

This refers to a fundamental teaching or belief that is considered essential or necessary. It often refers to a core principle or value that guides someone’s actions or decisions.

  • For example, in a religious context, someone might say, “The essential doctrine of this faith is love and compassion.”
  • In a philosophical discussion, a person might argue, “The essential doctrine of utilitarianism is maximizing overall happiness.”
  • A teacher might explain, “Understanding the essential doctrines of this subject is crucial for further learning.”

17. Main principle

This refers to the primary belief or rule that serves as the foundation or guiding principle for a particular system or ideology. It represents the main idea or concept that everything else revolves around.

  • For instance, in a political discussion, someone might say, “The main principle of democracy is the power of the people.”
  • In a business context, a manager might emphasize, “Our main principle is to always prioritize customer satisfaction.”
  • A coach might explain, “The main principle of this sport is teamwork and cooperation.”

18. Core value

This refers to a central belief or principle that is considered fundamental and essential to a person or organization. It represents a core value that guides behavior and decision-making.

  • For example, in a company’s mission statement, it might state, “Our core values include integrity, innovation, and teamwork.”
  • In a personal context, someone might say, “Honesty is one of my core values.”
  • A teacher might emphasize, “Respect for others is a core value in our classroom.”

19. Main belief

This refers to the primary conviction or idea that someone holds as a fundamental belief. It represents a core principle that shapes their worldview or perspective.

  • For instance, in a religious context, someone might say, “Love and forgiveness are my main beliefs.”
  • In a political discussion, a person might argue, “Equality and justice are my main beliefs.”
  • A mentor might share, “Hard work and perseverance are the main beliefs that have led to my success.”

20. Central rule

This refers to a key guideline or principle that serves as a central rule for a particular system or situation. It represents a fundamental concept or regulation that governs behavior or actions.

  • For example, in a classroom, a teacher might establish, “Respect for others is the central rule.”
  • In a game or sport, a referee might enforce, “Following the rules is the central rule of fair play.”
  • A company might have a policy that states, “The central rule is to prioritize safety above all else.”

21. Essential truth

This refers to a fundamental or indispensable truth or principle that serves as the foundation of someone’s beliefs or values.

  • For example, a person might say, “Honesty is an essential truth that I live by.”
  • In a philosophical discussion, one might argue, “The essential truth of human existence is the pursuit of happiness.”
  • A motivational speaker might encourage others by saying, “Discover your essential truths and live authentically according to them.”

22. Primary doctrine

This term refers to a fundamental or primary belief or doctrine that serves as a guiding principle in a particular context or system of thought.

  • For instance, in a religious context, one might say, “The primary doctrine of Christianity is the belief in Jesus as the savior.”
  • In a political discussion, a person might argue, “The primary doctrine of democracy is the principle of majority rule.”
  • A teacher might explain, “In this course, we will explore the primary doctrines of psychology.”

23. Mainstay

This slang term refers to a principle or belief that is relied upon or considered essential for stability, support, or continuity.

  • For example, in a team setting, one might say, “Trust is the mainstay of our success.”
  • In a relationship discussion, a person might reflect, “Communication is the mainstay of a healthy partnership.”
  • A business leader might emphasize, “Innovation is the mainstay of our company’s growth.”

24. Foundation stone

This term refers to a principle or belief that serves as a crucial or essential element upon which something is built or established.

  • For instance, in a discussion about personal growth, one might say, “Self-awareness is the foundation stone of personal development.”
  • In a debate about educational reform, a person might argue, “Critical thinking is the foundation stone of a well-rounded education.”
  • A mentor might advise, “Building strong relationships is the foundation stone of a successful career.”

25. Cardinal rule

This slang term refers to a fundamental or essential rule or principle that is considered of the highest importance or significance.

  • For example, in a sports context, one might say, “The cardinal rule of basketball is to never give up.”
  • In a discussion about etiquette, a person might share, “The cardinal rule of dining is to chew with your mouth closed.”
  • A teacher might remind students, “The cardinal rule of writing is to proofread your work before submitting it.”

26. Key tenet

A “key tenet” refers to a fundamental belief or principle that is considered crucial to a particular ideology or system of thought.

  • For example, in a discussion about democracy, someone might say, “Freedom of speech is a key tenet of democratic societies.”
  • In a religious context, a person might state, “Love thy neighbor is a key tenet of Christianity.”
  • A political activist might argue, “Equal rights for all is a key tenet of social justice movements.”

27. Basic truth

A “basic truth” refers to a fundamental or essential fact or reality that is universally acknowledged or accepted.

  • For instance, in a philosophical discussion, someone might say, “The basic truth of existence is that we are all mortal.”
  • In a scientific context, a researcher might state, “The basic truth of gravity is that objects with mass attract each other.”
  • A person discussing relationships might offer the advice, “The basic truth of a healthy partnership is open and honest communication.”

28. Primary rule

A “primary rule” refers to the main or most important guideline or principle that serves as the foundation for a particular system or code of conduct.

  • For example, in a classroom, a teacher might establish the primary rule of “Respect your classmates and their opinions.”
  • In a sports setting, a coach might emphasize the primary rule of “Always give your best effort.”
  • A person discussing personal finance might advise, “The primary rule of financial success is to spend less than you earn.”

29. Root principle

A “root principle” refers to a foundational belief or fundamental concept that forms the basis of a particular ideology or philosophy.

  • For instance, in a discussion about environmentalism, someone might refer to the root principle of “Sustainability.”
  • In a spiritual context, a person might discuss the root principle of “Oneness” or interconnectedness.
  • A person advocating for social change might argue, “The root principle of equality should guide all our actions and policies.”

30. Central belief

A “central belief” refers to a core or fundamental conviction or principle that is considered essential to one’s personal values or worldview.

  • For example, in a religious context, someone might hold the central belief that “Love is the highest form of spirituality.”
  • In a political discussion, a person might state, “The central belief of democracy is that power should be vested in the people.”
  • A person discussing personal growth might emphasize the central belief that “Self-reflection leads to self-improvement.”
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31. Primary belief

This refers to a core belief or value that is considered the most important or foundational. It represents a person’s fundamental conviction about a certain subject or idea.

  • For example, someone might say, “My primary belief is that everyone deserves equal rights.”
  • In a discussion about politics, one might argue, “Protecting the environment should be a primary belief for all politicians.”
  • A person might express their primary belief by stating, “My primary belief is that honesty is always the best policy.”

32. Root belief

This refers to a deeply held belief or value that serves as the basis or foundation for one’s principles. It represents the core conviction from which other beliefs and principles stem.

  • For instance, someone might say, “My root belief is that every individual has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
  • In a philosophical discussion, one might argue, “Understanding your root beliefs is essential for personal growth and self-awareness.”
  • A person might reflect on their own root belief by stating, “My root belief is that kindness and compassion can change the world.”

33. Core principle

This refers to a fundamental principle or belief that is considered essential and central to a particular system of thought or philosophy. It represents a core tenet that guides one’s actions and decisions.

  • For example, someone might say, “Equality is a core principle of a just society.”
  • In a discussion about business ethics, one might argue, “Transparency should be a core principle for all companies.”
  • A person might express their core principle by stating, “My core principle is to always treat others with respect and empathy.”

34. Essential principle

This refers to a belief or principle that is considered crucial or indispensable. It represents a fundamental conviction that is necessary for a particular system or ideology to function effectively.

  • For instance, someone might say, “Freedom of speech is an essential principle of democracy.”
  • In a debate about education, one might argue, “Critical thinking should be an essential principle in the curriculum.”
  • A person might reflect on their own essential principle by stating, “My essential principle is that honesty and integrity should guide all actions.”

35. Basic principle

This refers to a fundamental value or belief that serves as a foundation for one’s principles. It represents a basic guiding principle that shapes one’s worldview and influences decision-making.

  • For example, someone might say, “Respect for others is a basic principle that should be upheld.”
  • In a discussion about personal development, one might argue, “Self-reflection is a basic principle for growth and self-improvement.”
  • A person might express their basic principle by stating, “My basic principle is to always strive for fairness and justice.”

36. Fundamental principle

This refers to a basic truth or concept that serves as the foundation for a belief system or ideology. A fundamental principle is a guiding rule or value that shapes one’s actions and decisions.

  • For example, “Honesty is a fundamental principle in this company.”
  • In a philosophical discussion, one might argue, “Respect for human rights is a fundamental principle of a just society.”
  • A teacher might explain, “The fundamental principle of mathematics is that numbers can be added together to get a sum.”

37. Pillar

A pillar is a metaphorical term used to describe a principle or value that provides strong support for a belief system or organization. It represents a key element or foundation that upholds the overall structure.

  • For instance, “Honesty is one of the pillars of a healthy relationship.”
  • In a discussion about a political party’s platform, one might say, “Economic prosperity is a pillar of our party’s principles.”
  • A mentor might advise, “Integrity is a pillar of success in any profession.”

38. Backbone

The term “backbone” is used metaphorically to describe a principle or value that forms the central support or foundation of a belief system or organization. It represents the strength and resilience of the entire system.

  • For example, “Integrity is the backbone of this company.”
  • In a conversation about personal values, one might say, “Family is my backbone.”
  • A coach might emphasize, “Hard work and dedication are the backbone of a winning team.”

39. Cornerstone

A cornerstone is a metaphorical term used to describe a principle or value that is essential and fundamental to a belief system or organization. It represents a key element upon which the entire structure is built.

  • For instance, “Respect is the cornerstone of a healthy community.”
  • In a discussion about a company’s culture, one might say, “Innovation is a cornerstone of our organization.”
  • A teacher might explain, “Reading comprehension is a cornerstone skill for academic success.”

40. Ground rule

A ground rule is a basic principle or guideline that serves as a foundation for behavior or decision-making in a specific context or situation. Ground rules establish a framework for how individuals or groups should interact or operate.

  • For example, “One ground rule for this meeting is that everyone gets a chance to speak.”
  • In a discussion about classroom management, one might say, “Respecting others’ opinions is a ground rule in our class.”
  • A facilitator might establish ground rules for a workshop, such as “No interrupting others” or “Listen actively.”

41. Key element

This term refers to a crucial or essential part of a principle or concept. It signifies the element that is most important or necessary for the principle to function.

  • For example, in a discussion about effective leadership, someone might say, “Trust is the key element in building a strong team.”
  • In a debate about environmental conservation, a participant might argue, “Sustainability is the key element for preserving our planet.”
  • A teacher might emphasize to students, “Understanding the key elements of a mathematical equation is crucial for solving problems.”

42. Moral principle

This phrase describes a guiding belief or value that influences a person’s behavior and decisions. It represents a standard of right and wrong or a code of conduct based on moral values.

  • For instance, when discussing honesty, someone might say, “Telling the truth is a moral principle we should all follow.”
  • In a philosophical debate, a participant might argue, “Respecting the autonomy of others is a fundamental moral principle.”
  • A parent might teach their child, “Treating others with kindness is an important moral principle to live by.”

43. Standard practice

This term refers to a commonly followed procedure or behavior that is considered the usual or expected way of doing things within a particular context or industry.

  • For example, in a healthcare setting, a nurse might say, “Washing hands before patient contact is a standard practice to prevent infections.”
  • In a discussion about workplace safety, a supervisor might emphasize, “Wearing protective gear is a standard practice in this facility.”
  • A teacher might remind students, “Submitting assignments on time is a standard practice in this class.”

44. Touchstone

This word represents a principle or standard by which other things are judged or evaluated. It serves as a reference point or criterion to determine the quality, value, or authenticity of something.

  • For instance, in a discussion about literature, someone might say, “Shakespeare’s works are often considered the touchstone of English literature.”
  • In a debate about artistic talent, a critic might argue, “Originality and creativity should be the touchstone for evaluating contemporary art.”
  • A mentor might advise a protege, “Integrity should always be your touchstone in making ethical decisions.”

45. Bedrock

This term refers to the solid and unshakeable base or support upon which a principle or belief system is built. It represents the fundamental and essential element that provides stability and strength.

  • For example, in a discussion about democracy, someone might say, “Freedom of speech is the bedrock of a democratic society.”
  • In a debate about personal values, a participant might argue, “Honesty and integrity are the bedrock of a strong character.”
  • A teacher might explain to students, “Understanding basic math concepts is the bedrock for advanced problem-solving skills.”

46. Fundamental belief

A fundamental belief is a deeply held conviction or principle that serves as a foundation for one’s thoughts, actions, or values.

  • For example, “Respecting others is a fundamental belief that guides my interactions with people.”
  • In a philosophical discussion, someone might argue, “Fundamental beliefs shape our understanding of the world and our place in it.”
  • A person might reflect, “Examining our fundamental beliefs can lead to personal growth and self-discovery.”

47. Principal idea

A principal idea refers to a central or essential concept that forms the basis of a theory, argument, or system of thought.

  • For instance, “The principal idea behind this book is to promote environmental sustainability.”
  • In a classroom setting, a teacher might explain, “Understanding the principal ideas of a text helps us grasp its overall message.”
  • A person might say, “The principal idea of democracy is that power resides with the people.”

48. Basic tenet

A basic tenet is a fundamental principle or belief that serves as a basis for a particular philosophy, system, or code of conduct.

  • For example, “Honesty is a basic tenet of a strong and trustworthy relationship.”
  • In a religious context, someone might state, “Love thy neighbor as thyself is a basic tenet of Christianity.”
  • A person might argue, “Respecting others’ autonomy is a basic tenet of ethical decision-making.”

49. Guiding principle

A guiding principle is a fundamental belief or value that serves as a compass for one’s actions, decisions, or behavior.

  • For instance, “Integrity is my guiding principle in all aspects of life.”
  • In a business setting, a company might state, “Customer satisfaction is one of our guiding principles.”
  • A person might reflect, “Identifying and living by our guiding principles helps us stay true to ourselves.”

50. Main rule

The main rule refers to a primary or fundamental guideline that serves as a basis for behavior, decision-making, or adherence to a particular system or code.

  • For example, “The main rule of this game is to never give up.”
  • In a discussion about etiquette, someone might say, “The main rule at the dinner table is to chew with your mouth closed.”
  • A person might advise, “When it comes to investing, the main rule is to diversify your portfolio.”

51. Primary principle

This term refers to the main or most important rule or guideline in a particular context or situation. It is often used to emphasize the significance or foundational nature of a principle.

  • For example, in a discussion about ethics, one might say, “The primary principle is to always act with honesty and integrity.”
  • In a debate about leadership, someone might argue, “The primary principle of effective leadership is to lead by example.”
  • A teacher might explain, “The primary principle of mathematics is that numbers can be manipulated and combined in various ways to solve problems.”

52. Root rule

This phrase is used to describe the fundamental or foundational rule that serves as the basis for other rules or principles. It implies that all other rules stem from or are derived from this root rule.

  • For instance, in a discussion about a legal system, one might say, “The root rule of our legal system is that everyone is innocent until proven guilty.”
  • In a philosophical debate, someone might argue, “The root rule of ethics is to always act in a way that maximizes overall happiness.”
  • A teacher might explain, “The root rule of grammar is that sentences must have a subject and a verb.”