principio

principle, beginning

noun preen-CHEE-pyoh Common

Origin: Latin principium (beginning, foundation).

Usage Note

Principio covers two senses that Italian does not always separate: a guiding principle (un principio morale = a moral principle) and a beginning or starting point (dal principio = from the beginning). Do not confuse with principe (prince) or principale (main/boss).

Examples

"Agisce sempre per principio."

Natural Translation

She always acts on principle.

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