原理

yuánlǐ
  1. principle
  2. theory

CEDICT

Entry Composition

1 原 yuán
  1. former
  2. original
  3. primary
  4. raw
  5. level
  6. cause
  7. source
2 理 lǐ
  1. texture
  2. grain (of wood)
  3. inner essence
  4. intrinsic order
  5. reason
  6. logic
  7. truth
  8. science
  9. natural science (esp. physics)
  10. to manage
  11. to pay attention to
  12. to run (affairs)
  13. to handle
  14. to put in order
  15. to tidy up