What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
main
Example
The main reason for the delay was the traffic. [main: adjective]
Example
I'll have the main course, please. [main: noun]
principal
Example
The principal of the school announced the new policy. [principal: noun]
Example
She played the principal role in the play. [principal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Main is more common than principal in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between main and principal?
Principal is generally considered more formal than main, and is often used in academic or professional settings to describe important roles or concepts.
