原則

• Reading: げんそく
• Romaji: gensoku
• Kanji breakdown: 原 (gen) — original, fundamental; 則 (soku) — rule, law
• Pronunciation: /ge.n.so.kɯ/

Meaning

Principle; general rule; fundamental guideline.

A noun describing a fundamental rule or guiding principle. The adverbial form 原則として means 'as a rule' or 'in principle' and is extremely common in formal writing and regulations. Used to state general rules that may have exceptions.

Examples

1. 原則として遅刻は認められない。 As a rule, tardiness is not allowed.
2. 自由と平等は民主主義の原則だ。 Freedom and equality are principles of democracy.
3. 原則に従って判断するべきだ。 You should make your judgment based on principles.

Usage Guide

Context: law, regulations, philosophy

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 原 (original, fundamental) and 則 (rule, law). Together they express a foundational rule from which other decisions derive.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal