“Principal” vs. “principle”: What’s the difference?

What is a homophone?

“Principal” and “principle” are homophones, meaning they sound the same but have different spellings and meanings. Some examples of common homophones include:

• To, too, and two
• There, their, and they’re
• Bare and bear
• Accept and except
• Effect and affect
• Hear and here

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Once you understand the definition of the words “principal” and “principle,” it will be easy to tell them apart and know when to use them.

What does “principal” mean?

The word “principal” has several meanings. As an adjective, it describes something that is the most important or influential. As a noun, “principal” refers to a controlling authority, such as someone in a leadership position.

Here are some examples of the word “principal” used correctly in a sentence:

• The principal investor is contributing over ten million dollars.
• I received a phone call from the high school principal today saying that you’ve been missing class.
• The orchestra’s principal violinist gets the first chair.
• Our principal concern is that you learn a lot when you go away to college.
• Machinery and metals are Italy’s two principal exports.
• The company’s principal founded the software company over ten years ago.

“Principal” can also mean the original amount of money borrowed in a loan, excluding interest or fees. For example, if you took out $25,000 in student loans, your principal would be $25,000. Other examples of “principal” used in a sentence:

• With an interest rate of 8%, I’m having trouble paying back the principal of my mortgage and now owe more than my home is worth.
• The principal of my new electric car is $45,000.

What does “principle” mean?

The definition of the word “principle” is a rule or code of conduct. “Principle” can also be used to refer to a primary source or underlying endowment.

Here are some examples of the word “principle” used correctly in a sentence:

• Due to her strong moral principles, she couldn’t lie.
• This week, we will be learning the principles of calculus.
• Equality and freedom are major American principles.
• The company operates on the principle that quality customer service is essential.
• In principle, I agree with the president’s decision, although I think it will be difficult to execute.
• In principle, you should get at least eight hours of sleep, but in practice, most people get less.

How to remember when to use “principal” or “principle”

Remember that “principal” has the word “pal” in it—a person that is a close friend. “Principle” is used to refer to ideas or rules, not people.

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Knowing when to use “principal” and “principle” is not only a cinch, but it can help you write with confidence. Check out more writing tips that will help you master the written word.