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principium

principium

9.9
A basic idea or starting point that explains other things
  • noun
  • /prɪnˈsɪpiəm/
  • Formal
translation icon : principio
  • Space and time, for him, constituted the principium individuationis, the ground of individuation.

Examples

  • Understanding the principium behind moral choices is essential in ethical discussions.

  • The principium of his argument is based on the works of ancient philosophers.

  • What he calls the principium individuationis the principle of individuation.

  • In science, the principium of experimentation is to test hypotheses through observation.

Synonyms

principle
vsprincipium
633 3.8

A basic idea or law that explains how something works

is a general foundational starting idea rather than a technical explanatory law
cornerstone
vsprincipium
46 5.3

A very important idea or part that something depends on

is treated as an initial starting idea rather than a single supporting element
basic principle
vsprincipium
22 2.7

An important rule or idea that forms the base for other knowledge

is used especially as a starting point in philosophical or scientific contexts
first principles
vsprincipium
  • Formal
7 5.8

Basic ideas and facts that form the foundation of a subject

is a single basic starting point rather than a set of root truths
fundament
vsprincipium
1 9.4

A basic idea that something is built on

is a clear starting point often stated in philosophical or scientific work
footstone
vsprincipium
  • Archaic
7.7

A basic idea or belief that other things depend on

is a literal starting concept often applied in philosophical or scientific thinking

How Fundamental

axiom
30 7.5
principium
  • Formal
9.9
principle
633 3.8
component
447 3.4
detail
1.0

Surface Forms

principium singular
principia plural

Etymology

Principium comes from Latin and is related to principle and principal, all from a root that means 'first' or 'beginning'. So a principium is a basic starting point or rule, which is why we use it for a fundamental idea in science or philosophy.