Confusing with 'Principiante'

The phrase 'al principio' (at the beginning) is incredibly common. You can use it to start a story or contrast how things were then versus now. For example: 'Al principio, no me gustaba el café, pero ahora me encanta.'

The Super-Useful Phrase: 'Al principio'

Extremely common. This is one of the first ways you'll learn to talk about the start of something.

The phrase 'en principio' is great for saying something is true theoretically, but might change. 'En principio, la reunión es el martes.' (In principle, the meeting is on Tuesday.) This hints that the day could still change.

Using 'En principio'

Very common, especially when talking about morals, rules, or science.

While it's good to recognize this word, you should almost always use 'empiezo' (from 'empezar') or 'comienzo' (from 'comenzar') in your own conversations. They sound much more natural.

Use 'Empiezo' Instead

Rare in spoken Spanish. It's the 'I' form of the verb 'principiar' (to begin), but almost everyone uses 'empezar' or 'comenzar' instead. You might see it in literature or very formal writing.

Learn the complete meaning of the Spanish word 'principio'. Understand its two main uses as 'beginning' and 'principle', with examples, usage tips, and related words.

principiar

Complete Conjugation Tables

🔄 Conjugations

indicative

present

future

imperfect

conditional

preterite

imperative

negative

affirmative

subjunctive

present

imperfect

Practice Conjugations