Principal support can be replaced by different synonyms depending on the context it is used in. Some common synonyms include mainstay, backbone, cornerstone, basis, foundation, pillar, key support and essential support. These synonyms all refer to the primary or strongest form of support for something or someone. For instance, an organization's mainstay might be its groundbreaking ideas while a pillar of a community might be a respected elder. Understanding the differences between these synonyms can help provide more depth and nuance when describing important forms of support needed for success in different fields.