in principle
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in principle
Basically, in general. It describes a general rule or attitude that may, however, have exceptions.
Prinzipiell bin ich mit dem Plan einverstanden, aber wir müssen noch über die Kosten sprechen.
In principle, I agree with the plan, but we still need to talk about the costs.
on principle
For a specific principle or belief.
Er lehnte die Teilnahme aus prinzipiellen Gründen ab.
He declined to participate on principle.
The adverb 'prinzipiell' (in principle/on principle) is derived from the noun 'das Prinzip' (the principle). It therefore describes an action or attitude that is based on a particular principle.
Aus prinzipiellen Gründen isst sie kein Fleisch.
On principle, she does not eat meat.
When 'prinzipiell' comes at the beginning of a sentence, the verb follows directly in position 2. This word order is used to emphasize the fundamental nature of a statement.
Prinzipiell sind alle mit dem Vorschlag einverstanden.
In principle, everyone agrees with the proposal.
In the meaning of 'grundsätzlich' (basically/in principle), 'prinzipiell' is very often followed by a limitation with 'aber' (but) or 'jedoch' (however). This signals that the general rule has an exception.
Prinzipiell fahre ich gerne mit dem Zug, aber heute nehme ich das Auto.
In principle, I like taking the train, but today I'm taking the car.
When a decision is made from a firm conviction, the fixed phrase 'aus prinzipiellen Gründen' (on principle / for reasons of principle) is often used.
Er lehnte das Angebot aus prinzipiellen Gründen ab.
He declined the offer on principle.
generally / fundamental
„Grundsätzlich“ is often used for a general rule or attitude that applies, while allowing for exceptions. „Prinzipiell“ places greater emphasis on the fact that something is possible or right according to the underlying principles. Use „grundsätzlich“ for the practical rule and „prinzipiell“ for a possibility based on principles.
Prinzipiell kann jeder Mitarbeitende im Homeoffice arbeiten, wenn die Aufgabe dafür geeignet ist.
In principle, any employee can work from home if the task is suitable for it.
Grundsätzlich können alle Mitarbeitenden im Homeoffice arbeiten.
As a general rule, all employees can work from home.
