1
Core function
According to a general rule, ideal, or possibility, even if practical conditions interfere.
Example
In principle, any resident may request the records.
in principle
/ɪn ˈprɪnsəpəl/ · in PRIN-suh-pultheoretical-qualification phrase
According to a general rule, ideal, or possibility, even if practical conditions interfere.
Use in principle to express this relationship precisely: according to a general rule, ideal, or possibility, even if practical conditions interfere.
What in principle Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Scope in a sentence
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
The parties agreed in principle but had not settled the cost.
3
Analytical effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The method is sound in principle, although it requires unusually precise instruments.
Use in principle Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
In principle, any resident may request the records.
The parties agreed in principle but had not settled the cost.
The method is sound in principle, although it requires unusually precise instruments.
Precision Matters
In principle overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
in principle
vs.Means according to a general rule, ideal, or possibility, even if practical conditions interfere.
in theory
Means according to an idea, model, or expected rule rather than observed implementation.
in principle
vs.Means according to a general rule, ideal, or possibility, even if practical conditions interfere.
in practice
Means describe what actually happens when an idea, rule, or method is applied.
in principle
vs.Means according to a general rule, ideal, or possibility, even if practical conditions interfere.
in general
Means state what is broadly or usually true while allowing possible exceptions.
in principle
vs.Means according to a general rule, ideal, or possibility, even if practical conditions interfere.
in effect
Means state what something amounts to in practice or restate its essential implication.
Test in principle in Context
The capability exists as a general possibility, while practical limits remain.
1
___, the algorithm can process any language, but it has been trained on only three.