a central idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a central idea" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to the main concept or principle of a text, speech, or other type of communication. For example, "The central idea of the speech was that we should strive for equality in all aspects of life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A central idea is to focus on the parents.

The New York Times - Magazine

The dances reiterate a central idea about men and women and how they interact.

The New York Times - Arts

Utility is now a central idea in economics, and in fact underpins the entire insurance industry.

The Guardian

They require a central idea that will give you endless material, strong comic talent, and a team of great writers.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was the evolution of a central idea through continually changing circumstances.Special report Back to basics How was it for you?

The Economist

They have been shaped around what it is they have lost, a central idea in "Great House" — in fact, the meaning behind its title.

The New York Times - Books

"Esperanza" was a throw-everything-at-the-wall sort of record; here, aided by the intuitive producer-arranger Gil Goldstein, she's sticking to a central idea.

The New York Times - Arts

He is a fan: "It's a good test, precisely because it focuses on a central idea in child-friendliness: children's everyday freedoms and choices.

The Guardian

There's a tacit understanding in jazz circles that one path to success involves a sturdy, identifiable working band, and that another rests on high concept, or at least a central idea.

The New York Times - Arts

For several years now, it's been hammering away at a central idea: since the modern app phone is essentially a computer, why can't it become a brain that you slip into different docks?

The New York Times - Tech

Soros's philanthropy is animated by a central idea: that the free expression of critical thought, such as he has practiced in his financial career, is the wellspring of democracy, or an "open society".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a central idea" to clearly introduce the most important concept in your writing. This helps readers quickly grasp the essence of your message.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple paragraphs or sections with "a central idea". Use synonyms and varied sentence structures to maintain reader engagement and avoid redundancy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a central idea" functions as a noun phrase, serving to introduce or identify the primary concept or theme within a discourse. As shown by Ludwig, it sets the stage for further explanation or analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

29%

News & Media

41%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a central idea" is a frequently used and grammatically correct phrase that serves to introduce the core concept of a discussion, argument, or creative work. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, especially in academic, scientific, and news-related domains. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and to vary your language. The phrase enjoys a relatively high source quality, with its most frequent sources being authoritative publications such as The New York Times and The Guardian. By understanding its function, purpose, and common usage patterns, writers can effectively incorporate "a central idea" into their work to enhance clarity and focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a core concept

Replaces 'idea' with 'concept', emphasizing a fundamental element.

a key concept

Highlights the importance and centrality of the concept.

a fundamental concept

Highlights the foundational aspect of the idea.

a main theme

Focuses on the recurring subject or topic.

a key principle

Highlights a guiding rule or belief.

a central theme

Similar to main theme, but emphasizes centrality.

a guiding principle

Focuses on the directive nature of the idea.

a primary focus

Emphasizes the main point of attention or effort.

a crucial element

Stresses the importance of a necessary part.

a basic notion

Emphasizes the elementary or simple understanding.

FAQs

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

Use "a central idea" to introduce the core concept or principle. For example, "A central idea of the book is the importance of empathy."

What are some alternatives to "a central idea"?

You can use alternatives such as "a core concept", "a main theme", or "a key principle" depending on the specific context.

How is "a central idea" different from "a secondary idea"?

"A central idea" refers to the main point or core concept, while "a secondary idea" supports or elaborates on the main concept but is not the primary focus.

Is it appropriate to use "a central idea" in formal writing?

Yes, "a central idea" is suitable for formal writing as it clearly and concisely introduces the main concept of a discussion or argument.