Precept: meaning, definitions and examples
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precept
[ ˈpriːsɛpt ]
moral principle
A precept is a general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought. It serves as a guideline or principle that shapes one's actions and decisions. Precepts can be derived from ethical, moral, or religious beliefs, providing a framework for how to conduct oneself in society. Often, precepts aim to instill certain virtues or values in individuals to promote harmony and understanding.
Synonyms
commandment, guideline, principle, rule, tenet
Examples of usage
- The precepts of honesty are crucial in building trust.
- He followed the precepts of his faith diligently.
- Many cultures have precepts that guide family life.
- The teacher emphasized the precepts of respect and responsibility.
- In Buddhism, the five precepts are fundamental ethical guidelines.
Translations
Translations of the word "precept" in other languages:
🇵🇹 preceito
- princípio
- norma
🇮🇳 आदेश
- सिद्धांत
- नियम
🇩🇪 Vorstellung
- Grundsatz
- Vorschrift
🇮🇩 prinsip
- pedoman
- aturan
🇺🇦 принцип
- настанова
- правило
🇵🇱 zasada
- przepis
- nakaz
🇯🇵 教え
- 原則
- 規則
🇫🇷 précepte
- principe
- règle
🇪🇸 precepto
- principio
- norma
🇹🇷 ilkeler
- kural
- emir
🇰🇷 규범
- 원칙
- 지침
🇸🇦 مبدأ
- قاعدة
- توجيه
🇨🇿 předpis
- zásada
- norma
🇸🇰 princíp
- predpis
- norma
🇨🇳 原则
- 规则
- 教义
🇸🇮 načelo
- pravilo
- predpis
🇮🇸 meginregla
- fyrirmynd
- regla
🇰🇿 принцип
- ереже
- нұсқау
🇬🇪 მუხლი
- პრინციპი
- ნორმა
🇦🇿 prinsip
- qayda
- təlimat
🇲🇽 precepto
- principio
- norma
Word origin
The word 'precept' originates from the Latin word 'praeceptum', which means 'that which is taken beforehand'. This stems from the verb 'praecipere', meaning 'to seize, instruct, teach'. It became integrated into Middle English during the 14th century, evolving to represent more than just a command; it reflected a guiding principle or moral rule intended to influence behavior. Over time, particularly in philosophical and religious contexts, the term has come to embody essential teachings that underpin ethical conduct. The use of 'precept' has maintained its relevance across various disciplines, including law, education, and ethics, highlighting its importance as a foundation for structured thought and behavior.