a basic point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a basic point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a fundamental or essential idea in a discussion or argument. Example: "Before we dive deeper into the topic, let's clarify a basic point that everyone should understand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

But the math illustrates a basic point.

The New York Times

It seems like a basic point: The best campaign wins.

The New York Times

He wants to leave some room for a rapprochement without yielding a basic point".

The New York Times

Her words illustrated a basic point and counterpoint of the campaign.

The New York Times

Start with a basic point: Slashing government spending destroys jobs and causes the economy to shrink.

The New York Times

How could someone as well connected as Mr. Schultz get such a basic point wrong?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

In Automatic mode, the camera is a basic point-and-shoot, with almost no photographic controls.

The New York Times - Tech

Used with distance-measuring equipment (DME), VOR provides a basic point-to-point guidance system for airliners.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Elizabeth Loebman, who took pictures of employees, hot dogs and sauerkraut at Katz's Delicatessen in New York as an homage to her childhood, said the camera she used felt very similar to using a basic point-and-shoot automatic.

The New York Times - Tech

Once you understand three basic settings, they say, you'll be ready to turn automatic off and turn on your creativity, whether you are using a basic point-and-shoot or a high-end D.S.L.R. Push the ISO In the analog days when Kodachrome was king, a selection of films provided different light sensitivity.

The New York Times

This bemuses Tucker Shaw, the food critic for The Denver Post, who made do with a basic point-and-shoot digital camera to take pictures of everything he ate in 2004; he published the photos in his book, "Everything I Ate: A Year in the Life of My Mouth".

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a basic point" to introduce a fundamental idea or principle before delving into more complex details. This helps ensure that your audience has a solid foundation of understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a basic point" to oversimplify complex issues. While it's useful for introducing fundamental concepts, be sure to acknowledge and explore the nuances and complexities of the topic as well.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a basic point" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a fundamental or essential idea. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and usable in written English. The examples show its use in various contexts to highlight foundational concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a basic point" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase that serves to introduce a fundamental idea or principle. According to Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various writing contexts, from formal to informal. Its neutral register and frequent appearance in news, science, and business sources underscore its versatility. When using this phrase, ensure that you are indeed highlighting a foundational concept and not oversimplifying a complex issue. Alternatives like "a fundamental concept" or "a key consideration" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey. The phrase helps to establish a clear foundation for further discussion or analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fundamental concept

Replaces "point" with "concept", emphasizing the idea's nature as a building block of understanding.

an essential element

Substitutes "point" with "element", highlighting the idea's necessity.

a key consideration

Focuses on the importance of the point in decision-making or evaluation.

a core principle

Emphasizes that the point is a foundational rule or belief.

a central idea

Highlights the point as the main theme or focus.

a primary aspect

Replaces "point" with "aspect", referring to a part or feature of something.

a main component

Substitutes "point" with "component", suggesting the idea is a necessary piece of a larger whole.

a crucial factor

Highlights the point as a critical element influencing an outcome.

a starting premise

Highlights the idea as a foundation for further reasoning or action.

the crux of the matter

Emphasizes that the point is the decisive or critical issue.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a basic point" in a sentence?

Use "a basic point" to introduce a fundamental concept or principle before discussing more complex details. This ensures your audience understands the foundation of your argument or explanation. For example, "a basic point in economics is that supply and demand influence prices".

What are some alternatives to using "a basic point" in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a fundamental concept", "a key consideration", or "an essential element".

Is it appropriate to use "a basic point" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate. "A basic point" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, ensure that the surrounding language maintains the appropriate tone for your writing.

What's the difference between "a basic point" and "a key point"?

"A basic point" typically refers to a foundational or fundamental idea, while "a key point" emphasizes an important or crucial aspect within a broader discussion.