- pronunciation:
- prIn
sih
p
l
- features:
- Word Combinations (noun), Note, Homophone Note, Word Explorer, Word Parts
| part of speech: |
noun |
| definition: |
a basic law or belief on which action or behavior is based.
Our country's laws are based on the principles of liberty and justice for all.
- similar words:
- belief, law, regulation, rule
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| related words: |
code, constitution, foundation |
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principle or principal?
Principle is a noun that means a basic idea or belief.
Principal is an adjective that means main or most important. It is also a noun that refers to the person in charge of a school.
Compare:
- A principle of democracy is "One person, one vote."
- His principal responsibility at work is sorting the mail.
- The principal made an announcement to the students.
The words
principle and
principal sound alike but have different meanings.