| 释义 |
pre·cept
\ˈprēˌsept\ noun
(-s)
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin praeceptum, from neuter of praeceptus, past participle of praecipere to take beforehand, give rules or precepts, admonish, instruct, from prae- pre- + -cipere (from capere to take, seize) — more at heave
1. : a command or principle intended as a general rule of action
< the dominance of his party was the most important precept of his life — Carol L. Thompson >
as
a. : a commandment enjoined respecting moral conduct
< observe the sixth commandment not as a precept of divine law but as a counsel of profitable prudence — W.L.Sullivan >
b. : a working rule respecting the technique of an art or science
< by precept and example was largely instrumental in rescuing English poetry — Gerald Bullett >
2. : a written order or mandate issued by legally constituted authority to a person commanding or authorizing him to do something: as
a. : an order, warrent, or writ issued pursuant to law to an administrative officer; usually : a command in the nature of civil or criminal process
b. : the direction or command of a feudal superior to an agent or official to admit a tenant to occupancy
< the precept of sasine in Scots law >
c. Britain : an order requiring payment or collection of a local tax
Synonyms: see law |