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Glossary term

Principal

Definition

The principal is the original amount of money you borrow — the loan amount itself, before interest.

Technical definition

Principal is the outstanding balance of borrowed funds on which interest is calculated, excluding interest and fees.

Why it matters

Interest is charged on the principal, so paying it down faster reduces the interest you owe over time.

Example

If you borrow $200,000 to buy land, the $200,000 is your principal; interest is charged on whatever portion remains unpaid.

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