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principle

Definition:

(nou) a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct (nou) a rule or standard especially of good behavior (nou) a basic truth or law or assumption (nou) a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system (nou) rule of personal conduct (nou) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature)

Phonetic Transcription:

ˈprɪnsəpəl

Examples:

The laws enmeshed him into the principle.

He proves the law of the lever by means of the principle of work.

The common principle of all analytical judgments is the law of contradiction.

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principle

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Common mistakes of principle pronunciation

  1. Misplacing stress: Some learners stress the second syllable, saying "prin-CI-ple" /prɪnˈsɪpəl/ instead of the correct "PRIN-ciple" /ˈprɪn.sɪ.pəl/. Tip: Remember to emphasize the first syllable.
  2. Confusing with "principal": The word "principal" refers to a person in charge, while "principle" means a fundamental truth. They are pronounced differently: "PRIN-cipal" /ˈprɪn.sɪ.pəl/. Tip: Focus on the context to distinguish between them.
  3. Incorrect vowel sounds: Some may pronounce the first vowel as "ee" instead of "i", saying "preen-ciple" /priːnˈsɪpəl/. Tip: Practice the short "i" sound /ɪ/ to achieve the correct pronunciation.
  4. Omitting the final "l": Some speakers may drop the "l" sound at the end, saying "prin-cipe" /ˈprɪn.sɪp/. Tip: Ensure to articulate the final "l" clearly to pronounce "principle" correctly.
  5. Overemphasizing the "c": Learners might pronounce it as "prin-ciple" with a strong "c" sound, which can sound awkward. Tip: Keep the "c" soft and blend it smoothly into the syllable.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "principle" correctly?

In American English, "principle" is pronounced as /ˈprɪn.sɪ.pəl/ with the stress on the first syllable. In British English, the pronunciation is the same, ensuring clarity in both accents.

What is the syllable breakdown for the word "principle"?

The word "principle" has three syllables: "prin," "ci," and "ple." You can break it down as /ˈprɪn.sɪ.pəl/ to help with pronunciation.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "principle"?

A common mistake is misplacing the stress, saying "prin-CI-ple" instead of "PRIN-ci-ple." Remember to emphasize the first syllable to pronounce it correctly.

How does the pronunciation of "principle" differ from "principal"?

While "principle" is /ˈprɪn.sɪ.pəl/, "principal" is pronounced /ˈprɪn.sɪ.pəl/ as well, but it has a different meaning. "Principal" refers to a person in authority, while "principle" refers to a fundamental truth or belief.
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