essential principle

[/ɪˈsenʃəl ˈprɪnsəpəl/]
nounpl: essential principles
princípio essencial
1. A fundamental rule, law, or truth that forms the basis of something and is absolutely necessary for its existence or function
The essential principle of democracy is that power derives from the people.
O princípio essencial da democracia é que o poder emana do povo.
2. A core concept or foundational idea that cannot be removed without destroying the nature of something
Honesty is an essential principle in business ethics.
A honestidade é um princípio essencial na ética empresarial.
3. A basic truth or natural law underlying something abstract or concrete
The essential principle of physics is that energy cannot be created or destroyed.
O princípio essencial da física é que a energia não pode ser criada nem destruída.
This phrase is extensively used in both American and Brazilian academic, legal, and philosophical discourse. In Brazil, 'princípio essencial' appears frequently in constitutional law, business ethics, and educational materials. In the USA, 'essential principle' is foundational to political theory, scientific methodology, and ethical frameworks. The concept reflects values of rationality and systematic thought in Western intellectual traditions.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
fundamental principlecore principlebasic rulefoundational conceptcardinal principle
Antonyms / Antônimos
secondary principleinessentialnon-fundamental conceptperipheral concept

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
princípio essencial
Most common translation used throughout Brazil
São Paulo
princípio essencial / princípio fundamental
Both terms used interchangeably in business and academic contexts
Rio de Janeiro
princípio essencial
Standard usage in legal and political discourse
Portugal
princípio essencial
Identical to Brazilian Portuguese; widely used in formal contexts

Related Words

principlefoundationcornerstoneaxiomdoctrinetenetfundamentalessential

Related Idioms & Phrases

go back to basics
get down to brass tacks
the heart of the matter
the bottom line
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