What is the relationship between revenues and expenses according to the matching principle?

The matching principle in accounting dictates that expenses should be recognized in the same period as the revenues they help to generate. This concept ensures that financial statements accurately reflect a company's profitability during a specific period by aligning revenues earned with the costs incurred to earn those revenues. By recording both revenues and associated expenses simultaneously, it provides a clearer picture of the financial performance, allowing stakeholders to assess the effectiveness of operations without the distortion that could arise from timing differences.

The rationale behind this principle is grounded in the accrual basis of accounting, which emphasizes recognizing financial events when they occur, rather than when cash transactions happen. This approach enhances the relevance and reliability of financial reports, making them more meaningful for users such as investors and creditors.