a central idea of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a central idea of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the main concept or theme of a text, argument, or discussion. Example: "The central idea of the article is the importance of sustainable living practices in modern society."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

This approach was famously institutionalized by Jack Welch, who, when he took over as C.E.O. of G.E., laid down a rule that he described as a "central idea" of his tenure: the company would quit any business in which it was not No. 1 or No. 2. The lesson that people took away from this was clear — third place is for losers.

The New Yorker

A central idea of the hypothesis was from the reversible binding of CdTe QDs and free polymerase.

Nanoscale Res Lett

A central idea of the Semantic Web is that ontologies are a proper bridge among users and search engines, ensuring more accurate search results.

Vietnam Journal of Computer Science

This is a central idea of the "strong program" developed in the 1970s by the Edinburgh school, the most influential group in the social studies of science.

SEP

A central idea of human rights is that it permits individuals to appeal to a regional or international adjudication body for relief denied them by their host states.

Forbes

The development of sustainable process technologies was a major concern and a central idea of what Prof. W.E.L. Spiess (WELS) and his research group have tried to accomplish throughout a long and productive scientific journey.

Procedia Food Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

This was a central idea to come out of the deficit commission last month, and because the tax code is so enormously complicated is likely a good idea.

Huffington Post

The creation of a so-called systemic regulator to monitor against the risks that plunged markets worldwide into distress last year is a central idea in discussions of the regulatory overhaul.

The New York Times

Obama, meanwhile, would stay mindful of a central idea in Rules For Radicals: "Compromise is another word that carries shades of weakness, vacillation, betrayal of ideals, surrender of moral principles...

Huffington Post

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

The Economist

Yet amidst this bewildering swirl, a central idea and even a story of sorts is discernible — and it is a classic Godard theme, going back to the 60s: a man and a woman.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a central idea of", ensure it accurately represents the primary concept being discussed. Clarity and precision are crucial for effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "a central idea of" when discussing minor or secondary points. Reserve it for the most significant and overarching concepts to maintain credibility and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a central idea of" functions as a noun phrase that introduces and identifies the most important concept within a particular context. Ludwig examples confirm it is used to pinpoint the core theme or principle being discussed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

23%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a central idea of" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce the core concept or main theme within a text, discussion, or theory. Ludwig's AI confirms its correct usage. It is versatile, appearing across various contexts from scientific research to news articles, though most frequently in science-related discussions. When employing this phrase, ensure it represents the primary concept accurately, avoiding its use for minor points to maintain the impact of your communication. Alternatives like "a core concept of" or "a key principle of" can be used to add variety while retaining the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a core concept of

Focuses on the fundamental concept, emphasizing its role as a basic building block.

a key principle of

Highlights the guiding principle or rule that is essential to the subject matter.

a main theme of

Emphasizes the recurring theme that underlies the discourse or work.

a primary focus of

Shifts the emphasis to the main point of attention or concentration.

a basic tenet of

Stresses the foundational belief or doctrine upon which something is based.

a fundamental aspect of

Highlights a critical element that is intrinsic and essential to the whole.

a guiding notion of

Implies that the idea serves as a directive or influential factor.

the essence of

Captures the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something.

the heart of

Emphasizes the core or most important part of something.

the cornerstone of

Highlights the foundational element upon which everything else is built.

FAQs

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

Use "a central idea of" to introduce the main concept or theme of a text, argument, or discussion. For example, "A central idea of the book is the importance of community."

What are some alternatives to "a central idea of"?

You can use alternatives like "a core concept of", "a key principle of", or "a main theme of" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "a central idea of" is suitable for formal writing as it clearly and directly introduces a main concept.

What's the difference between "a central idea of" and "the main point of"?

"A central idea of" refers to the overarching concept or theme, while "the main point of" refers to the specific argument or message being conveyed. They are similar but not interchangeable.