What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
primary
Example
The primary goal of this project is to increase sales. [primary: adjective]
Example
She won the primary election by a large margin. [primary: noun]
Example
The primary colors are red, blue, and yellow. [primary: adjective]
principal
Example
The principal reason for his resignation was a disagreement with the board. [principal: adjective]
Example
The principal of the school announced the new policy. [principal: noun]
Example
The loan was for $10,000, with a 5% annual interest rate on the principal. [principal: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Primary 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 primary and principal?
Principal is slightly more formal than primary, but both words are commonly used in formal writing and speech.
