precept /ˈpriːsɛpt/

• 1. 

  N-COUNT A precept is a general rule that helps you to decide how you should behave in particular circumstances. 准则 [正式]

  例：

  ...an electoral process based on the central precept that all people are born equal.

  …以所有人生而平等这一核心准则为基础的一种选举程序。