in principle

Idioms

Fundamentally, in general, but not necessarily in all particulars. For example, The diplomats accepted the idea in principle but would rely on experts to work out all the details. [Early 1800s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The agreement in principle will provide Spirit with the money to finalize its restructuring and make changes in its fleet, network and cost structure.

From MarketWatch

He said the company has agreed “in principle” to an omni-channel transaction expected to add an additional $500 million in annual revenue.

From The Wall Street Journal

A referendum ballot on Sunday also gives voters a chance to voice whether they want constitutional reform in principle, but with no specific measures on the table.

From Barron's

MSPs approved McArthur's bill in principle in May, six months after MPs backed an assisted dying bill at Westminster that would apply south of the border.

From BBC

The U.K. specialist insurer can do better, analysts write after the companies said they agreed in principle on a deal, after Beazley’s board rejected several lower offers.

From The Wall Street Journal

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023