a key idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"a key idea" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to a main or important concept or theme in a sentence or passage. Example: "The key idea of the article was to promote sustainable living practices in urban areas."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A key idea is to apply numerous (thousands to millions) in-situ visualizations simultaneously.

Computer Physics Communications

A key idea here is that it is information, not time per se, that matters.

Yale University

A key idea from Adam Smith is "gains from trade", explained to me at primary school.

The Guardian

A key idea in thermodynamics is that of a "phase transition".

The Guardian

A key idea within responsible travel is putting your money directly into local businesses.

The Guardian - Travel

Do not wait for a great person to champion a key idea in a decisive moment.

Harvard Business Review

A key idea shared among these is the use of models for exploratory rather than predictive purposes.

Environmental Modelling & Software

A key idea is a new fuel grain design to accelerate the gasification rate of solid fuel.

Acta Astronautica

A key idea is the introduction of a canonical connection, matching the manifold and group properties of the configuration space.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

But "Jersey Boys" hit upon a key idea: of telling an underknown story about music that's ubiquitous and adored.

The New Yorker

So a key idea was that if you have to learn from data because data can be incomplete and noisy.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a key idea" to clearly signal the introduction of a significant concept or theme in your writing. This helps readers quickly grasp the central points of your argument or explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "a key idea" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "central concept" or "core principle" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key idea" primarily functions as a noun phrase, serving to identify a central or significant concept within a discussion or text. As Ludwig examples show, it's often used to introduce pivotal elements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

34%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key idea" is a frequently used and grammatically correct phrase that serves to highlight a central concept. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It is most commonly found in scientific, news media, and academic sources. While highly useful for emphasizing important concepts, it's important to avoid overuse and consider varying your language with synonyms like "central concept" or "core principle". Remember to use "a key idea" when introducing one of several important ideas and "the key idea" when referring to the single most important idea. Be mindful of the specific context to ensure accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

central concept

Emphasizes the core or fundamental nature of the concept.

core principle

Highlights a guiding rule or belief.

fundamental concept

Underscores the basic and essential nature of the idea.

basic tenet

Refers to a foundational belief or doctrine.

essential element

Focuses on a necessary component of a larger concept or system.

important aspect

Highlights a significant part or feature of something.

crucial point

Emphasizes the critical importance of a particular detail or consideration.

significant concept

Highlights the relative importance of the concept.

primary notion

Focuses on the main or initial concept.

underlying theme

Refers to a recurring or foundational subject.

FAQs

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

You can use "a key idea" to introduce a central concept, like: "A key idea in this theory is that knowledge is socially constructed."

What are some alternatives to "a key idea"?

Alternatives include "central concept", "core principle", or "fundamental concept". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "the key idea" or "a key idea"?

Use "a key idea" when introducing one of several important ideas. Use "the key idea" when referring to the single most important idea.

What's the difference between "a key idea" and "an important idea"?

"A key idea" suggests a foundational or crucial concept, while "an important idea" simply highlights something of significant value or relevance.