Translation guide
The English word 'principal' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: the head of a school, a main participant in a transaction, money in finance, and the adjective meaning 'main' or 'most important'. Each meaning requires a different Japanese expression.
The person in charge of a school, especially in elementary, junior high, or high school.
The standard term for a school principal. Used for elementary, junior high, and high schools.
I'd like to see the principal.
The new principal is very strict.
Used for the president or principal of a university or college. Not for lower schools.
The university president gave a speech at the entrance ceremony.
Specifically the head of a kindergarten or nursery school (幼稚園/保育園).
The kindergarten principal is kind to the children.
A person who directly takes part in a business deal, legal matter, or contract, as opposed to an agent or representative.
Refers to the person themselves, the principal party. Commonly used in legal and business contexts.
The contract must be signed by the principal.
A party concerned, a person directly involved. Often used in legal or dispute contexts.
Literally 'leading role'. Can be used metaphorically for the main person in a deal or event, but is more common in entertainment.
The original sum of money invested or lent, not including interest or profits.
Describing something as primary, chief, or most significant.
A pre-noun adjectival meaning 'main' or 'principal'. Used in everyday language.
What is the principal reason?
The principal industry of this town is tourism.
Also means 'main' or 'major', slightly more formal. Often used in written contexts.
Point out the principal issues.
Means 'chief' or 'head', used in titles like 'principal conductor' or 'principal dancer'. Not for general 'main'.
He is the principal conductor.
校長 (こうちょう) is for elementary through high school. 学長 (がくちょう) is for universities. Using the wrong one can cause confusion.
He is the president of the university.
本人 (ほんにん) emphasizes 'the person himself/herself', often contrasted with a representative. 当事者 (とうじしゃ) emphasizes being a party to a matter, often in legal contexts.
Identity verification (of the principal) is required.
As a principal party, you have responsibility.
I want to speak with the principal, not the agent.
当事者間で合意に達した。
The principals reached an agreement.
He is the principal in this project.
The principal doesn't decrease.
投資元本が保証されている。
The principal investment is guaranteed.