If you’re like the majority of us, it’s easier to learn a subject when you can see real life examples of it in front of you.
One of the most effective ways to become a better writer is—you guessed it—to write. It’s much more difficult to become a great writer without ever setting a pen to paper. In other words, book smarts can only get you so far. After a certain point, you will begin to see diminishing returns until you get out there and do it yourself.
For that reason, I want to show you real examples of these words in use, in each of their meanings. This is by far the best way to learn principal vs. principle, with example sentences.
Principal as a Position of Authority/First Order of Importance
- The principal joined the pep rally to encourage the students. (Noun)
- The branch’s principal is located on the third floor. (Noun)
- We are concerned about the principal motives behind his actions. (Adjective)
Principal in a Financial Sense
- Making double payments on your loan allows you to pay down your principal. (Noun)
- I investment my money and am living off the interest. I don’t touch the principal. (Noun)
- The principal amount of my investment was $50,000. (Adjective)
Principle as a Legal or Moral Rule
While principal can be used as a noun and an adjective, principle only functions as a noun.
- The principles established in the Declaration of Independence are that all men are created equal.
- After the scandal, she resigned as a matter of principle.
- The same principles of logic apply to all debates.
More Information on Principle vs. Principal
If you want more examples and further explanations on the differences between these two words, take a look at our full page on the subject. There we have full definitions, explanations of grammatical function, and tricks to remember, “Is it principle or principal?”
We also have a page of quizzes that allow you to test your mental ability with these two words. Are you sure of the difference? Put it to the test with our informative quizzes.
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