in principle

• S'emploie pour indiquer que quelque chose est globalement vrai ou acceptable en théorie, même si des détails pratiques ou des exceptions peuvent s'appliquer.

Used to indicate that something is generally true or acceptable in theory, even if practical details or exceptions may apply.

1. General agreementB2formal

   Used to indicate that something is accepted as a general idea, though details may not be settled.

   en principe

   • The committee agreed in principle to the proposal.
   • We accept the plan in principle, but need to discuss the budget.
   • In principle, the idea is sound, but implementation is tricky.

2. TheoreticallyB2formal

   According to a general rule or theory, but not necessarily in practice.

   en principe

   • In principle, all citizens are equal before the law.
   • The machine works in principle, but it needs fine-tuning.
   • In principle, the solution is simple, but it requires resources.