a common refrain of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a common refrain of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a frequently repeated idea or sentiment expressed by a particular group or in a specific context. Example: "A common refrain of environmental activists is the urgent need to address climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

It was a common refrain of Guillen's, I learned.

The New Yorker

The retrospective is bound by a common refrain of tenderness.

The New Yorker

I believe that's a common refrain of many high-achieving black people in this country.

The New York Times - Magazine

But the report repeated a common refrain of studies related to women's rights – significant barriers to achieving gender equality remain.

The Guardian

And while styles varied, there was a common refrain of amazement at the events, and a certain joy at having the chance to be be able to laugh.

The New York Times - Arts

"I didn't know I liked the blues" is a common refrain of new fans, said Nancy Edwards, director of marketing for the Blues Festival Guide.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Smaller government and less spending will be a common refrain for Republicans of all stripes.

The New York Times

His statement is hardly a ringing endorsement of the working group's effort because it is a common refrain to blame a lack of resources for the absence of any real progress on cases.

The New York Times

I have three grandchildren but they have their own lives". This is a common refrain - many of the residents say their families are "too busy" to visit, or that they live too far away.

The Guardian

On the campaign trail, the question of Trump's ability to launch nuclear strikes as president was a common refrain among supporters of his primary opponents and of Hillary Clinton.

The Washington Post

The murderous academic job market of the 1990s prompts a common refrain among members of hiring committees.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a common refrain of" to introduce widely recognized viewpoints or arguments, especially when referencing a specific group or community. This adds context and credibility to your writing.

Common error

While "a common refrain of" is suitable for many contexts, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Consider more precise alternatives like "a recurring theme" or "a widely held belief" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common refrain of" functions as an introductory phrase. It serves to preface a statement, opinion, or belief that is frequently repeated or expressed by a particular group or within a specific context, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

9%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a common refrain of" is a phrase used to introduce a statement or idea that is frequently repeated, often by a specific group. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media and Academic contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider the tone and formality of your writing when choosing between this phrase and more precise alternatives. By understanding its function and usage patterns, you can effectively incorporate it into your writing to convey familiar viewpoints and add context to your arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a recurring theme in

Focuses on a theme rather than a direct expression, implying a concept that reappears.

a familiar claim of

Highlights that the claim has been heard many times before.

a frequent assertion from

Indicates a claim or statement that is often repeated.

a repeated sentiment among

Focuses on the recurring feeling or opinion.

a popular saying among

Highlights the popularity of a saying within a specific group.

a well-known statement by

Emphasizes the widespread knowledge of the statement.

a typical comment from

Suggests a remark that is commonly made.

a habitual expression from

Indicates an expression that is used out of habit.

a standard line of

Suggests a pre-prepared or expected remark.

a widely held belief by

Emphasizes the widespread acceptance of a particular belief.

FAQs

How to use "a common refrain of" in a sentence?

Use "a common refrain of" to introduce a statement, belief, or argument that is frequently repeated by a particular group or within a specific context. For example: "A common refrain of environmental activists is the need for sustainable practices."

What can I say instead of "a common refrain of"?

You can use alternatives like "a recurring theme in", "a popular saying among", or "a widely held belief by depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "a common refrain of" or "the common refrain of"?

"A common refrain of" is generally preferred when introducing a general sentiment or opinion shared by a group. "The common refrain of" is more appropriate when referring to a specific, well-defined statement that is known to be repeated.

What's the difference between "a common refrain of" and "a common misconception of"?

"A common refrain of" introduces something that is frequently stated or expressed, regardless of its validity. "A common misconception of" introduces something that is commonly misunderstood or believed to be false.