The Difference Between Principal Vs Principle

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Principal vs principle: Key takeaways

Principal:

• Leader or money amount
• Head of a school
• Primary researcher
• Original loan amount

Principle:

• Rule or guiding belief
• Code of ethics
• Scientific law
• Basis for action

What do “principal” and “principle” mean?

Principle

A principle is a basic truth or rule that guides thoughts and actions. Some examples are:

• Honesty and integrity – these guide people to act ethically
• Laws of science that explain how nature works
• Rules of business, like supply and demand

Principles are abstract ideas that direct how people think and act.

Principal

A principal refers to a head leader of something or an original amount of money. Some examples are:

• The main administrator of a school
• The lead researcher in a group
• The first amount borrowed, invested, etc.

Unlike broad principles, principals are specific leaders and money amounts.

Principal vs Principle: Key Differences

While both words relate to important stuff, here are main differences:

• A principle is an abstract idea; a principal is a leader or money amount.
• Principles provide guidance for thoughts; principals take leadership actions.
• Principles influence thinking; principals directly lead groups.

This table summarizes the differences:

Using Principal vs Principle Correctly

Because the words sound the same when speaking, pay attention to correctly use them when writing.

Principle examples:

• Good health principles are balance, variety and moderation.
• I believe in leading through honesty, care and responsibility.
• The study conflicted with rules about memory.

Principal examples:

• The new high school principal starts July 1st.
• As head researcher, Dr. Hart has overall responsibility.
• I still owe $15,000 of the principal on my car loan.

Common Mistakes

People often mix up “principal” and “principle” by mistake since they look and sound alike. Watch out for these errors:

Wrong: The main reason for bullying is a lack moral principles.
Right: The main reason for bullying is a lack of moral principles.

Wrong: As assistant principle, discipline is a big part of my job.
Right: As assistant principal, discipline is a big part of my job.

Other commonly confused words:

• Cite, site, and sight

Conclusion

In summary, “principal” refers to leaders, original money amounts, and first investments. “Principle” means a basic truth or rule that guides thoughts and actions.

Use ‘principle’ when referring to an abstract concept, moral value or general rule. Use ‘principal’ when referring to a main leader or original amount of money.

Use this guide to know when to use each word correctly.

Quick Guide: Principal vs Principle

Principal: Leader or money amount
Principle: Rule or guiding belief

Using this guide and the differences described here will help you choose the right word.