Principled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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principled
[ˈprɪn.sɪ.pəld ]
Definitions
ethical behavior
Having or showing a strong belief in moral principles and values.
Synonyms
ethical, moral, righteous, upright.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| principled |
Used to describe someone who follows a strong and consistent set of beliefs or rules.
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| ethical |
Applied in professional or organizational settings to describe actions that adhere to accepted standards of conduct. Often linked with careers like medicine, law, and business.
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| moral |
Used more broadly to refer to what is considered right or wrong behavior according to societal or personal beliefs.
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| righteous |
Carries a religious or spiritual connotation, implying a person is just and morally upright. It can sometimes imply self-righteousness, giving it a slightly negative tone.
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| upright |
Often describes someone known for honesty and integrity in both personal and professional life. The word has a formal tone.
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Examples of usage
- She was a principled leader who always stood up for what she believed in.
- He made a principled decision to resign rather than compromise his values.
based on a set of principles
Done according to a fixed set of rules or beliefs.
Synonyms
ethical, moral, righteous, upright.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| principled |
Used to describe someone who is guided by a strong sense of right and wrong, particularly in difficult situations. Applies to people who stick to their beliefs and values.
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| ethical |
Relates to behavior that conforms to accepted standards of conduct in a particular profession or activity. Often used in professional and academic settings.
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| moral |
Pertains to personal beliefs about what is right and wrong, often shaped by culture, religion, or personal experiences. Used in broader discussions about human behavior.
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| righteous |
Describes someone who behaves in a just and upright manner, often with a sense of moral superiority. Can sometimes carry a connotation of being holier-than-thou.
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| upright |
Used to describe someone who is always honest and behaves in a moral and ethical way. Often implies a consistent and unblemished character.
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Examples of usage
- The company has a principled approach to business, always following strict ethical guidelines.
- He argued for a more principled approach to solving the issue, rather than resorting to quick fixes.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Many philosophers argue that being principled is essential for a good life, emphasizing the importance of virtue and moral integrity.
- The concept of principled behavior is central to ethical theories, including deontology, which focuses on rules and duties.
Cultural References
- Literary heroes, such as Atticus Finch from 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' are often seen as principled figures who stand for justice.
- The term relates to various movements, such as civil rights, where leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. were celebrated for their principled stands against injustice.
Psychology
- Research suggests that principled individuals often show higher levels of integrity, which can lead to greater trust and cooperation in social scenarios.
- Studies in moral psychology indicate that principled behavior may provide individuals with a stronger sense of purpose and satisfaction in life.
Education
- Teaching children about principled behavior can help cultivate a sense of empathy and ethical reasoning from a young age.
- Educational programs often emphasize character development, encouraging students to develop and uphold their own principles.
Origin of 'principled'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'principium,' meaning 'a beginning or principle,' which indicates the foundation of someone's character.
- It has been used in English since the early 17th century, reflecting a growing interest in ethics and moral philosophy.
The word 'principled' originated from the Middle English word 'principle' in the 14th century, derived from the Old French 'principele' and the Latin 'principalis'. It is related to the Latin word 'principium', meaning 'beginning' or 'foundation'. Over time, 'principled' evolved to describe someone or something guided by a set of ethical principles or beliefs.