The principal element is the key component or most important aspect of a particular situation or concept. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to explore the opposite or antonyms of the principal element to gain a better understanding of the topic. Some antonyms for principal element include subsidiary, secondary, subordinate, trivial, unimportant, and inconsequential. Understanding these antonyms can help to provide a clearer picture of the key concepts or ideas at play, and how they relate to the overall topic. While the principal element is important, it's also vital to understand the role of other factors in shaping the overall picture.