French translation of main is 
principal

Meaning of "main" in English

The word "main" in English is primarily used as an adjective to describe something that is the most important or principal among several items or factors. It highlights the chief element or focus within a group. For example, in the phrase "main course," it denotes the central dish of a meal. Additionally, "main" can refer to a primary route, often termed as "main road," or a large pipe, such as a "water main," supplying utilities to an area. The usage emphasizes centrality and significance.

Meaning of "principal" in French

In French, "principal" is used as an adjective to denote something that is of primary importance or takes precedence over others. It shares a similar meaning with its English counterpart, emphasizing the key or most significant elements in a situation or list. For instance, "le problème principal" translates to "the main problem." As a noun, "principal" can refer to a school leader, similar to "headmaster" in English. It underscores priority and leadership in its usage, denoting what is foremost.

Pronunciation of "main" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /meɪn/

Pronunciation Variations: In different English dialects, the pronunciation of "main" remains fairly consistent. However, slight variations may occur in regions with distinct vowel sounds, such as the Southern United States or parts of the UK, though these differences are minimal.

Pronunciation of "principal" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /pʁɛ̃.si.pal/

Pronunciation Variations: In French-speaking regions, the pronunciation of "principal" can vary slightly. In standard French, it's pronounced as given, but regional accents, such as Quebecois, may introduce subtle differences in the vowel sounds or the pronunciation of the 'r'.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. The main reason for the delay was traffic. (La raison principale du retard était la circulation.)
2. She held the main position in the company. (Elle occupait la position principale dans l'entreprise.)
3. The main road is closed for construction. (La route principale est fermée pour travaux.)
4. His main goal is to win the championship. (Son objectif principal est de gagner le championnat.)
5. We need to address the main issue first. (Nous devons d'abord aborder le problème principal.)
6. The main event will start at 7 PM. (L'événement principal commencera à 19h.)
7. This is the main entrance to the building. (C'est l'entrée principale du bâtiment.)
8. The main dish was delicious. (Le plat principal était délicieux.)
9. Her main concern is the safety of her children. (Sa principale préoccupation est la sécurité de ses enfants.)
10. The main office is located downtown. (Le bureau principal est situé au centre-ville.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "main" in English

Synonyms: primary, chief, principal, leading, central, key, dominant, major, foremost, paramount.

Antonyms: secondary, minor, auxiliary, subordinate, insignificant, trivial, peripheral, marginal, ancillary, inconsequential.

Similar Words: essential, fundamental, pivotal, cardinal, crucial, primary, foundational, utmost, predominant, significant.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "principal" in French

Synonyms: essentiel, majeur, central, dominant, crucial, primordial, premier, fondamental, capital, prioritaire.

Antonyms: secondaire, mineur, accessoire, subalterne, insignifiant, trivial, périphérique, marginal, anodin, complémentaire.

Similar Words: important, déterminant, clé, prédominant, vital, déterminant, crucial, décisif, essentiel, supérieur.

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