a central concept

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a central concept" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a key idea or principle that is fundamental to a particular topic or field of study. Example: "In our discussion of climate change, a central concept is the greenhouse effect and its impact on global temperatures."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Similarly, item 6 (see Supplemental Material: DCI) is not a central concept or alternative conception.

CBE Life Sciences Education

Then comes the swerve — a central concept in Epicurean physics.

The New Yorker

The tragic flaw is a central concept in classic Greek and Shakespearian tragedies.

The Guardian - Books

Making sure that value for money is a central concept for all travel decisions.

The Guardian

But let's back up a little bit; why is social capital such a central concept?

The Washington Post

Progress variable is a central concept in the theory and modeling of partially-premixed flames.

Combustion and Flame

Shariah (literally, "the path to the watering place") is a central concept in Islam.

The New York Times

The term informed tectonics is introduced as a central concept in material-based design.

Design Studies

Cognitive vulnerability is a central concept in cognitive theories of unipolar depression.

Clinical Psychology Review

The notion of justice is also essential in that of the just state, a central concept in political philosophy.

Britannica

Hence, the universe can be described as a four-dimensional space-time continuum, a central concept in general relativity.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a central concept", clearly define it and explain its relevance to the topic at hand. Providing context helps readers understand its significance.

Common error

Avoid assuming your audience already understands "a central concept". Always provide a brief explanation or definition, even if it seems obvious to you. This ensures clarity and prevents confusion.

Linguistic Context

A central concept primarily functions as a noun phrase used to introduce or highlight a key idea, principle, or element within a particular context. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It serves to draw attention to the foundational aspects of a topic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

21%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Academia

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a central concept" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to introduce key ideas or principles across various fields. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. Predominantly found in scientific, news media, and encyclopedia contexts, the phrase serves to highlight foundational aspects of a topic, guiding the audience to focus on core elements. While it's crucial to clearly define the concept and avoid assuming prior knowledge, this phrase remains a valuable tool for emphasizing the importance of fundamental ideas in clear and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fundamental idea

Emphasizes the basic and necessary nature of the concept.

a core principle

Focuses on the idea being a foundational guideline or rule.

a basic tenet

Emphasizes that the concept is a belief or principle held as true.

a key element

Highlights the importance of the concept as a component of something larger.

a cornerstone of

Highlights the concept as a basic building block or foundation.

a crucial aspect

Indicates that the concept is critical and essential.

a primary focus

Highlights that the concept is the main point of attention.

a pivotal notion

Stresses the concept's role as a turning point or critical idea.

the essence of

Focuses on the concept as the most important or intrinsic part.

the heart of the matter

Suggests the concept is the central and most significant point.

FAQs

How can I use "a central concept" in a sentence?

You can use "a central concept" to introduce a fundamental idea in a discussion or explanation. For example, "In understanding quantum physics, "quantum entanglement" is a central concept."

What phrases can I use instead of "a central concept"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a core principle", "a fundamental idea", or "a key element", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a central concept" and "a key concept"?

While similar, "a central concept" emphasizes the foundational nature of the idea, while "a key concept" simply highlights its importance. The choice depends on whether you want to stress the fundamental role or just the significance of the idea.

Is it redundant to say "a central concept that is central"?

Yes, it is generally redundant. Instead, rephrase to emphasize the core idea without repetition. For example, "The primary concept is..." or "The fundamental idea revolves around..."