principal

[ˈprɪnsəpl]

principal Definition

  • 1first in order of importance; main
  • 2the head of a school or organization

Using principal: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "principal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The principal reason for his resignation was the conflict with the board.

  • Example

    The principal of the school is retiring this year.

  • Example

    The principal aim of the project is to reduce waste.

  • Example

    The principal investor in the company withdrew his support.

principal Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for principal

Antonyms for principal

Idioms Using principal

  • principal player

    the most important or influential person in a group or organization

    Example

    He was the principal player in the negotiations with the government.

  • principal's office

    a room in a school where the principal works and meets with students and parents

    Example

    I was sent to the principal's office for breaking a school rule.

  • the leading role in a play or movie

    Example

    She landed the principal part in the school play.

Phrases with principal

  • the original amount of money invested or borrowed, not including interest

    Example

    The principal amount of the loan was $10,000.

  • principal dancer

    the lead dancer in a ballet company

    Example

    She was promoted to principal dancer after her stunning performance in Swan Lake.

  • the main point of attention or interest

    Example

    The principal focus of the conference was climate change.

Origins of principal

from Latin 'principalis', meaning 'first, chief'

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Summary: principal in Brief

The term 'principal' [ˈprɪnsəpl] refers to something that is first in order of importance or the head of an organization. It can be used as an adjective or a noun. Examples include 'The principal reason for his resignation was the conflict with the board,' and 'The principal of the school is retiring this year.' Phrases like 'principal amount' and idioms like 'principal player' extend the meaning of the word.

How do native speakers use this expression?