go-back-to-first-principles
/ˌɡəʊ bæk tə ˌfɜːst ˈprɪn.sɪ.pəlz/ IELTSAcademic
phrase
To stop using assumptions and return to the basic facts or main idea. People use it when a problem is confusing and needs a simpler, clearer approach.
- Let's go back to first principles and check the facts.
- The team went back to first principles before redesigning the product.
- When debates get messy, I like to go back to first principles.
Adinary Nuance
This phrase is close to 'simplify', 'rethink', and 'start over', but it is more specific. It means you return to the most basic facts or rules before deciding again. Use it when you want to sound careful, logical, and methodical. It is stronger than simply saying 'try again'.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- quay lại từ gốc
- Spanish
- volver a los principios básicos
- Chinese
- 回到基本原则
- Japanese
- 基本原則に立ち返る
- Korean
- 기본 원칙으로 돌아가다
Etymology
This phrase comes from the older idea of 'first principles' in philosophy and science: the most basic truths. It became common in business, study, and problem-solving language.
Common phrases
go back to first principlesfrom first principlesfirst-principles thinking
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is 'go back to first principles' formal or informal?
- It is fairly formal and often used in writing, meetings, and study. People also use it in speech when solving a hard problem.
- What is the difference between 'go back to first principles' and 'start over'?
- Start over means begin again. Go back to first principles means return to the basic facts or rules first.
- Can I use this phrase in business English?
- Yes. It works well in meetings, strategy discussions, and reports when you want a logical approach.