principle vs principal

Definitions

noun

1. (law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature)
2. a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system
3. a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct
4. a basic truth or law or assumption
5. a rule or standard especially of good behavior

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Examples

If this approach has a drawback, it is that the zealous pursuit of the founding principle—disinterring the buried life, stamped under the sod by conniving male partners—sometimes obscures the fact that not a great deal gets added to the wider cultural landscape it is bent on illuminating.

In principle, there was nothing that could not be absorbed into this radically Christianized world.

The relevant principle is that if a member causes loss to the council he/she is liable to make good that loss if he/she has misconducted him/herself knowing that loss may result.

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Definitions

noun

1. an actor who plays a principal role
2. the original amount of a debt on which interest is calculated
3. the major party to a financial transaction at a stock exchange; buys and sells for his own account
4. the educator who has executive authority for a school
5. (criminal law) any person involved in a criminal offense, regardless of whether the person profits from such involvement

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adjective

1. most important element

Examples

The decision removed one of the rebels' principal grievances and was expected to strengthen Frelimo's position at the negotiating table.

The lymphatic vessels of the tongue may be divided into four groups: (1) apical, from the tip of the tongue to the suprahyoid glands and principal gland of the tongue; (2) lateral, from the margin of the tongue—some of these pierce the Mylohyoideus to end in the submaxillary glands, others pass down on the Hyoglossus to the superior deep cervical glands; (3) basal, from the region of the vallate papillæ to the superior deep cervical glands; and (4) median, a few of which perforate the Mylohyoideus to reach the submaxillary glands, while the majority turn around the posterior border of the muscle to enter the superior deep cervical glands.

The principals of the local schools could be counted on for a couple of fresh scrubbed altar boys in charge of polished crucifix, candlesticks and dangerously toxic swinging thuribles.

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