Compare a person or main concern with a guiding belief.
The idea
A principal can lead a school; as an adjective, principal means main. A principle is a guiding rule or belief.
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| principal | a school leader; main or most important |
| principle | a guiding rule or belief |
Examples
- The principal welcomed the new pupils.
- A parent spoke with the school principal.
- Cost was the principal concern.
- The principal reason was lack of time.
- Fairness is a guiding principle here.
- The committee followed its principle of openness.
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Watch out
Do not spell the main reason with principle: the adjective is principal.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct word. The school ___ announced a new timetable. (principal / principle)
Show answer or example answer
principal
principal: The sentence refers to the school leader.
Choose the correct word. Their guiding ___ is to treat everyone fairly. (principal / principle)
Show answer or example answer
principle
principle: Fair treatment is a guiding rule.
Choose the correct word. The ___ aim of the project is cleaner water. (principal / principle)
Show answer or example answer
principal
principal: The aim is the main one.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct word. The school ___ announced a new timetable. (principal / principle)
Choose the correct word. Their guiding ___ is to treat everyone fairly. (principal / principle)
Choose the correct word. The ___ aim of the project is cleaner water. (principal / principle)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Name a school leader, a main aim and a rule you value.