Precept: meaning, definitions and examples
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precept
[ˈpriːsɛpt ]
Definition
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'praeceptum', meaning 'something taken beforehand', indicating a principle to be followed.
- It has been used in English since the 14th century, often related to moral or religious teachings.
- Related terms include 'preceptory', which refers to a place where precepts are taught, especially in chivalric orders.
Philosophy
- In philosophical discussions, precepts often concern ethical principles that guide human behavior.
- Immanuel Kant discussed precepts in his moral philosophy, emphasizing duties that lead to moral actions.
- The concept of precepts can be vital in utilitarianism, where rules are established for the greater good of society.
Education
- Precepts often serve as foundational ideas in teaching, helping students understand key concepts and behaviors.
- Many school curricula include precept-based systems where students are taught character education alongside academic subjects.
- Teachers might create classroom precepts to promote positive behavior and respect among students.
Religion
- Religious texts frequently contain precepts that guide followers’ conduct, such as those found in the Ten Commandments.
- In Buddhism, the Five Precepts serve as ethical guidelines for lay followers to live moral lives.
- Judaism's halakha includes numerous precepts that dictate daily life and spiritual practice.
Law
- In legal contexts, a precept can refer to an order or command issued by a legal authority, instructing actions to be taken.
- Judges often issue precepts to enforce decisions in court cases, making them significant in the judicial process.
- Legal precepts can guide the interpretation of laws, helping to maintain order and justice in society.
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