Glossary
Principal
The principal is the original amount borrowed, or the amount of the loan still outstanding. Interest is calculated on the principal. Each EMI repays a part of the principal and pays interest on what remains. Paying down the principal early, through part-payment, reduces the interest you pay over the
Related terms: EMI (Equated Monthly Instalment), Interest Rate, Amortisation.
Published 12 Nov 2026
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