principle

/ˈprɪnsəpəl/

a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct

Chinese meaning: 原则；原理；准则

It is a basic principle of democracy that everyone has the right to vote.

每个人都有投票权是民主的基本原则。

He refused to lie on principle, even though it cost him his job.

他出于原则拒绝说谎，尽管这让他丢了工作。