By principle

Question

Is it possible to use "by principle" as in "something is by principle excluded"?

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

I think the phrase you want is 'on principle'.

Anonymous · Answer

Mister MicawberI think the phrase you want is 'on principle'.

I believe not. I know there are "in principle" and "on principle" and also maybe "as a matter of principle". "On principle" seems to be a basic rule or convention, however I'm talking about specific principles, as in "in principle", however with the emphasis on excluding a different possibility "by" that principle, as it were. It seems that this is an aspect of "in principle" anyway, but the context seems to allow for a more specific emphasis.
More literally, the example was "which cannot, by principle, be definitely decided": it cannot be decided at all, due to a principle (or a sum of knowledge): one has to decide for the other posibility. I thought "by principle" was more specific in the context, since "in principle" seems to be more uncertain about the decision (in a possible interpretation), whereas "by principle" (whether strictly grammatical or not) seems to make more definitely clear that something is excluded, and something other decided.

I have come to find that "in principle" is still fitting in the case, but I'm curious about the possbility of ever using "by principle".

Mister Micawber · Answer

Anonymous I'm curious about the possbility of ever using "by principle".

No, I don't think so.

Anonymous · Answer

Ok, thanks.

By principle

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