a central observation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a central observation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when highlighting a key point or finding that is crucial to understanding a topic or argument. Example: "In our research, a central observation was that increased exercise significantly improves mental health."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Roofs collapsed throughout the 11-acre site, where a dozen cellblocks emanate from a central observation point.

The New York Times - Arts

It is interesting, though, that past precedents have usually been buildings designed for spectatorship: sports stadiums or, more resonantly, panopticon prisons, where inmates' cells are arranged in a ring so they're visible to guards in a central observation tower.

The Guardian - Arts

Vertical distributions were recorded over 90 min in rectangular plexiglass thermocline chambers designed to regulate the temperature of a central observation compartment to the desired values.

Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology

It is worth noting that a central observation in Argentina's relative decline is that it was accompanied by a strong reduction in private investment: from the formidable rates of capital accumulation pre-1913 financed primarily by foreigners to the dismal later performance.

Latin American Economic Review

A central observation is the importance of embodiment for the emergence of intelligent behaviour [39].

Plosone

A central observation in this study were the characteristic expanding opaque halo zones, which surrounded all φ15 plaques.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

A second central observation with regards to overall survival was the differences in patients with a higher BMI, which was protective.

BMC Cancer

Lamb and Davis then made what they think is a key observation: The central Andes, where the peaks are highest, faces an extreme lack of rain and rivers.

Science Magazine

The central observation was a diminution in the master regulatory protein caveolin-1 in monocytes from healthy AA compared to healthy C. A greater loss of monocyte caveolin-1 is linked to lung and skin fibrosis in bleomycin-treated mice and in SSc-ILD and IPF patients [ 11– 11].

Fibrogenesis and Tissue Repair

His central observation, that American capitalism is facing a crisis, is unquestionably correct.

The Guardian - Tech

It is worth remarking that the variations on this argument might retain steps 1 3 but modify the principle that is appealed to in 4, provided there is a reasonable connection between any substituted principle and the central observation in 3, that health affects the opportunity range open to people.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "a central observation" with a concise explanation or elaboration to prevent ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid labeling a minor detail as "a central observation". This diminishes the impact of genuinely significant points. Ensure the observation truly underpins your argument or analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a central observation" functions as a noun phrase, introducing a significant point or finding. According to Ludwig AI, it is suitable for highlighting crucial elements in various contexts. It identifies a key element derived from observation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a central observation" is a noun phrase used to introduce a significant insight or finding, commonly found in scientific and news contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and effective for highlighting key elements. Alternatives such as "a key insight" or "a primary finding" can be used depending on the context. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a core insight and avoid overstating the importance of minor details.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a key insight

This alternative replaces 'observation' with 'insight', emphasizing understanding and revelation.

a primary finding

Changing 'central observation' to 'primary finding' focuses on research results and discoveries.

a main conclusion

Using 'main conclusion' instead of 'central observation' highlights the result drawn from evidence or analysis.

a pivotal point

This alternative emphasizes the importance and turning nature of the observation.

a crucial element

Substituting 'central observation' with 'crucial element' highlights the necessity and importance of the element.

a significant aspect

This alternative focuses on the importance and noteworthiness of the aspect.

a noteworthy detail

Replacing 'central observation' with 'noteworthy detail' emphasizes the significance and interesting nature of the detail.

a fundamental concept

This alternative focuses on the foundational understanding provided by the concept.

a core principle

Using 'core principle' instead of 'central observation' emphasizes the underlying rule or belief.

a key takeaway

This option focuses on the essential learning point or message.

FAQs

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

You can use "a central observation" to introduce a key finding or insight. For example, "A central observation in our study was the significant impact of early intervention."

What are some alternatives to saying "a central observation"?

You can use alternatives like "a key insight", "a primary finding", or "a main conclusion" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a central observation" or "the central observation"?

Both "a central observation" and "the central observation" are grammatically correct. "A central observation" introduces one of several key observations, while "the central observation" implies it is the most important or single key observation.

When should I use "a central observation" in my writing?

Use "a central observation" when you want to emphasize a key finding or insight that is crucial to understanding a particular topic or argument. Ensure that this "key insight" is well-supported by evidence or analysis.