What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
principium
Example
The principium of democracy is the belief in the power of the people. [principium: noun]
Example
The principium of this theory is that all matter is made up of atoms. [principium: noun]
postulate
Example
The postulate that all humans have equal rights is the foundation of modern society. [postulate: noun]
Example
The scientist postulated that the new drug would cure the disease. [postulated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Postulate is more commonly used than principium in everyday language, especially in scientific and academic contexts. Postulate is a versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while principium is less common and more likely to be found in philosophical or theoretical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between principium and postulate?
Principium is a more formal word than postulate, and is typically used in academic or philosophical contexts. Postulate can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more versatile word overall.
