How Do You Spell PRINCIPALE?

Pronunciation: [pɹˈɪnsɪpˌe͡ɪl] (IPA)

The word "principale" is spelled with nine letters and pronounced /pʁɛ̃.si.pal/. The first syllable "prin" is pronounced with a nasal sound and followed by a "si" and "pal" sound which are both pronounced with a "p" and "l". The letter "e" at the end of the word is silent and does not affect the pronunciation. This French word means "principal" or "main" in English and is often used to describe the main character in a story or the primary purpose of an event.

PRINCIPALE Meaning and Definition

1. Principale is a noun in the French language, which can be translated to English as "principal" or "main" in terms of importance, significance, or prominence. It is derived from the Latin word "principalis," meaning "of first importance" or "first in rank."

   In the context of a financial or legal document, principale refers to the principal amount, usually of a loan or debt. It represents the main sum of money that is borrowed or owed, excluding any interest or additional charges. For instance, when repaying a mortgage, the monthly installment typically consists of both interest and principal, with the principal being the original loan amount.

   Furthermore, principale can be used to describe the main or leading character in a piece of literature or theatrical work. In this sense, it refers to the central figure around whom the story revolves or who plays the most significant role. For example, in a play, the principale may be the protagonist or the central hero/heroine.

   Additionally, principale can be used as an adjective to describe something as primary or essential. It denotes something that is of utmost importance or fundamental in a particular context. For instance, in a set of instructions, the principale étape (main step) would refer to the crucial or primary step necessary to complete the task.

   Overall, whether used as a noun or an adjective, principale emphasizes the main or primary aspect, character, or element of a situation, document, or piece of work.

Etymology of PRINCIPALE

The word principale has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word principalis, which means of first importance or chief. This Latin term is a derivative of princeps, meaning first, foremost, or chief. In medieval Latin, principalis was commonly used to describe the most important or significant thing in a particular context. Over time, this Latin term evolved into the Old French word principal, and eventually into the modern French word principale, which carries the meaning of main or principal.