Words / C2

PREES-ept/ˈpriːsept/

A precept is a rule or principle that guides behaviour (formal): a moral precept, the precepts of the craft. Rule and principle (already in the dictionary) are everyday and wider. A maxim is a short pithy rule. Do not hang a precept on the wall and skip the named key-holder.

Meaning

A rule or principle that guides behaviour (formal).

Examples

• “A precept on the wall is not a named key-holder.”
• “Rule is everyday. Principle is close (already in the dictionary). A maxim is a short saying. Protocol is the local procedure. Ethics on a poster is allowed. Cover on the night clinic is a staffing fact. The motto does not hold the key. Write the deputy’s name.”

Good to know

A guiding rule of conduct. Everyday: rule / principle (already in this dictionary). Close: maxim. A poster is not a rota.

Near in meaning

principle

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