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principal — meaning in English: main
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main
principal
journée
charge
permet
indispensable
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neutral
common
Usage
Native French speakers often use 'principal' to describe the core element of a topic, such as when discussing the main idea in a presentation or summarizing the principal themes of a book. In everyday conversations, it can also refer to the main person in a situation, like the principal of a school or the main character in a film.
Synonyms & nuances
'Principal' is often compared to 'majeur' (major), but while both indicate importance, 'principal' specifically emphasizes the primary aspect, making it the preferred choice when prioritizing one thing over others, such as the principal reason for a decision.
Culture
The word 'principal' comes from the Latin 'principalis', meaning 'chief' or 'first'. Beyond its linguistic roots, in French culture, 'principal' frequently appears in education, reflecting the importance of leadership roles. Interestingly, it also serves a dual purpose in English, where 'principal' can denote both a person in authority and the primary amount of a loan.
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