HSK 6 Prepositions (coverbs)
本着 … (的原则 / 精神)
In keeping with / on the principle of (本着)
Structure 本着 + guiding principle (+ 的原则 / 的精神),+ action
本着 (běnzhe) introduces the principle, spirit or criterion guiding an action: "in keeping with", "on the principle of". It is institutional, communiqué-style language, almost always followed by an abstract noun and often by 的原则 ("the principle of") or 的精神 ("the spirit of"): 本着公平的原则处理 = "to handle the matter on the principle of fairness". Unlike 按照 (HSK 4), which points to a concrete external rule or instruction, 本着 invokes a value or attitude one adopts as a starting point.
Examples
- 我们将本着公平公正的原则处理此事。
We will handle this matter on the principle of fairness and impartiality.
- 双方本着互相尊重的精神达成了协议。
The two sides reached an agreement in keeping with the spirit of mutual respect.
- 本着对读者负责的态度,编辑部逐字核对了引文。
In keeping with a sense of responsibility toward the reader, the editorial team checked the quotations word by word.
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