Principes (en. Principles)

/pʁɛ̃.si.p/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

noun

Foundations or bases on which a theory or system rests.

The principles of physics are essential for understanding the universe.

Les principes de la physique sont essentiels pour comprendre l'univers.

Ethical or moral standards that guide an individual's behavior.

She acts according to principles of justice and integrity.

Elle agit selon des principes de justice et d'intégrité.

Philosophy or belief adopted by a group or society.

The principles of natural law are still debated today.

Les principes de droit naturel sont encore débattus aujourd'hui.

Guidelines on which laws or regulations are based.

The principles of legislation must be respected.

Les principes de la législation doivent être respectés.

From the Latin 'principium', meaning 'origin, foundation'.

basic principles

The fundamental values necessary to start something.

principes de base

to follow one's principles

To act in accordance with one's personal values and beliefs.

suivre ses principes

moral principles

The ethical rules that guide our behavior.

principes moraux

rule

A directive or principle governing behavior.

règle

ethics

The study of moral principles that govern human behavior.

éthique

doctrine

A set of principles or beliefs held by a group or institution.

doctrine

Prejudices or rigid norms imposed.

He is so strict about his principles that he leaves no room for flexibility.

Il est tellement strict sur ses principes qu'il ne laisse aucune place à la flexibilité.

Having principles too high to adapt to circumstances.

Being inflexible about one's principles can sometimes be costly in business.

Être inflexible sur ses principes peut parfois coûter cher dans les affaires.