Difference between principle and principal

This is part of the difference between series.

I’ve heard some people confusing the words principal and principle. Here’s the difference between the two.

Let’s start with the easier one first: principle.

Principle

Principle typically means something like rule, doctrine, or standard.

I won’t compromise my principles.

Principal

Principal, on the other hand, has several more meanings.

I was sent to the office to see the principal.

He was the principal researcher in the study.

You still have $4000 left to pay on your principal.

If you’re talking about rules, doctrines, or standards, then use “principle”; otherwise, just use principal.

Which words do you confuse? Let me know in the comments below.

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By Kim Siever

I am a copywriter and copyeditor. I blog on writing and social media tips mostly, but I sometimes throw in my thoughts about running a small business. Follow me on Twitter at @hotpepper.