a central position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a central position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a key or important role or location within a context, such as in discussions about strategy, organization, or physical placement. Example: "In the debate, she took a central position, advocating for the need for immediate climate action."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Technology firms occupy a central position in modern economies.

Research Policy

Israel and Palestine occupy a central position in the book.

The Guardian - Books

Once again, a central position is usually desirable.

The Guardian - Music

Oscar isn't too dissimilar to Mata in that he likes to create from a central position.

The Telegraph

Encounter, Saunders concedes, "held a central position in postwar intellectual history.

The New York Times - Books

The island of Crete occupies a central position in the eastern Mediterranean.

The New York Times - Arts

A subsequent scrum infringement gave Sexton the chance to split the posts from a central position.

The Guardian - Sport

They launch another attack from a central position, spinning it wide right via Billy Twelvetrees.

The Guardian - Sport

Pitroipa seems to have moved to a central position for Burkina Faso.

The Guardian - Sport

The geopolitical situation of Germany determines that Germany is in a central position.

The New York Times

The wife is very pregnant, and has a central position in the work.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a central position", ensure the context clearly defines what it is central to, providing specific details for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a central position" when the role or location is only moderately important; opt for more accurate descriptors like "a supporting role" or "a secondary location" if appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a central position" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig's analysis confirms its role in designating a location or a role of significant importance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a central position" is a versatile phrase used to denote importance, influence, or location. As Ludwig confirms, it functions primarily as a noun phrase and is commonly found in Science, News & Media, and Formal & Business contexts. While generally neutral in register, it can adapt to more formal or scientific settings. When writing, ensure the context clearly defines what holds "a central position" to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "a pivotal role" or "a key location" can provide nuanced emphasis based on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pivotal role

Focuses on the importance and influence of the position.

a key location

Emphasizes the positional aspect and its importance.

a crucial element

Highlights the significance of being an essential part.

a vital component

Stresses the necessary nature of the position.

a core aspect

Indicates that the position is fundamental and essential.

a focal point

Suggests the position attracts attention and is a main concern.

a strategic location

Emphasizes planning and advantage from a location perspective.

a position of influence

Highlights the power and impact associated with the position.

a place of prominence

Focuses on being distinguished and notable.

a dominant position

Highlights a leading or controlling role.

FAQs

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

You can use "a central position" to describe something that is of great importance or located in the middle of something. For example, "The quarterback holds "a central position" on the team" or "The fort is in "a central position" in the town".

What are some alternatives to "a central position"?

Alternatives to "a central position" include "a pivotal role", "a key location", or "a crucial element" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "central position" or "key position"?

Both "central position" and "key position" are correct, but they emphasize different aspects. "Central position" highlights location or being in the middle, while "key position" emphasizes importance and influence.

Can "a central position" refer to an abstract concept?

Yes, "a central position" can refer to abstract concepts, such as a theory holding "a central position" in a debate, indicating its importance and influence in the discussion.