in principle

adverb

with regard to fundamentals although not concerning details (Freq. 2)

-

in principle, we agree

• Syn: ↑in theory, ↑in essence

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as a general idea or plan, although the details are not yet established or clear

the government agreed in principle to a peace plan that included a cease-fire

■ used to indicate that although something is theoretically possible, it may not actually happen

in principle, the banks are entitled to withdraw these loans when necessary

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in principle

1

— used to say that something which has not yet happened or been done should be possible according to what is known

In principle, making the changes should be a simple matter, but there may be problems we haven't thought of.

2 : in a general way and without giving attention to details

They accepted the offer in principle.

Do not confuse principle with principal.

• • •

Main Entry: ↑principle

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in ˈprinciple idiom

1. if something can be done in principle, there is no good reason why it should not be done although it has not yet been done and there may be some difficulties

•

In principle there is nothing that a human can do that a machine might not be able to do one day.

2. in general but not in detail

•

They have agreed to the proposal in principle but we still have to negotiate the terms.

Main entry: ↑principle_idiom