原則(げんそく)

げんそく
noun, adverb
principle; as a rule
formalabstract
1. principle; general rule
A fundamental rule or standard that guides actions or decisions.
この原則(げんそく)に従(したが)うべきだ。
We should follow this principle.
基本(きほん)原則(げんそく)を守(まも)ることが大切(たいせつ)だ。
It is important to uphold basic principles.
国際法(こくさいほう)の原則(げんそく)に基(もと)づいて行動(こうどう)しなければならない。
We must act based on the principles of international law.
2. as a rule; in principle
Used adverbially to indicate what is generally the case, implying that exceptions may exist.
会議(かいぎ)は原則(げんそく)月曜日(げつようび)に行(おこな)う。
Meetings are held on Mondays as a rule.
原則(げんそく)として返品(へんぴん)はできません。
As a rule, returns are not accepted.
参加(さんか)は原則(げんそく)無料(むりょう)ですが、一部(いちぶ)のイベントは有料(ゆうりょう)です。
Participation is free as a rule, but some events require a fee.

When used adverbially (sense 2), it often appears as 原則(げんそく)として or on its own before a statement. This usage implies 'this is the general rule, but exceptions may apply.' Very common in rules, regulations, and official notices.

Common collocations

  • 原則(げんそく)として: as a rule, in principle
  • 基本(きほん)原則(げんそく): basic principle
  • 原則(げんそく)に従(したが)う: to follow a principle
  • 原則(げんそく)禁止(きんし): prohibited in principle
general
Added 2026.2.18 15:08 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
11500/11801_gensoku