a key theme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key theme" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an important or central idea in a piece of writing, a discussion, or a presentation. Example: "In her novel, the struggle for identity is a key theme that resonates with many readers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Time is a key theme.

The Guardian - Books

It's a key theme in the book.

Harvard Business Review

Collaboration was a key theme of the discussion.

The Guardian

A key theme of the book is astrology.

The Guardian - Books

In fact it was a key theme of his trial.

The Guardian - Sport

Will he make that a key theme this time?

The Washington Post

Waistcoats are a key theme for next summer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Port system development is a key theme in port geography literature.

Journal of Transport Geography

Robotics is a key theme in many of the degrees offered in Systems Engineering.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

A key theme is that attention modulates cortical self-organization and stability.

Neurobiology of Attention

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The mutual interaction of population dynamics and evolutionary processes is a key theme.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To avoid redundancy, vary your language by using synonyms like "central idea" or "main focus" when appropriate.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "a key theme" in close proximity. This can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, use varied language to convey the same idea or rephrase sentences to highlight the theme without explicitly stating it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key theme" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a central or essential idea within a given context. Ludwig's examples show it is used to highlight crucial recurring elements in various forms of communication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a key theme" is a versatile and frequently used expression for identifying central ideas across various contexts. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and highlights its common usage in news, science, and academic writing.

When employing "a key theme", ensure it is directly relevant to your topic and consistently reinforced throughout your communication. While effective, avoid overuse by incorporating synonyms like "central idea" or "main focus" to maintain clarity and engagement. Understanding these nuances will allow for a more impactful and polished presentation of your work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a central theme

Replaces "key" with "central", emphasizing the core importance of the theme.

a major theme

Substitutes "key" with "major", highlighting the significant role of the theme.

a primary focus

Shifts from "theme" to "focus", indicating a main point of attention.

a main idea

Replaces "theme" with "idea", denoting the core concept or message.

a recurring motif

Uses "motif" instead of "theme", suggesting a repeated element or pattern.

a dominant aspect

Focuses on the "aspect" of something being prominent, rather than a theme.

a salient point

Highlights a noticeable or important "point", differing from a broader theme.

a significant element

Emphasizes the importance of an "element" instead of a theme.

an underlying principle

Indicates a foundational "principle", which can be a core concept behind a theme.

a common thread

Replaces "theme" with "thread", suggesting a connecting element throughout.

FAQs

What does "a key theme" mean?

The phrase "a key theme" refers to a central, important, or recurring idea or subject in a piece of writing, discussion, or artistic work. It signifies an element that is fundamental to understanding the overall message or purpose.

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

You can use "a key theme" to introduce a central idea. For example: "Time is a key theme in the novel", or "Collaboration was a key theme of the discussion".

What are some alternatives to "a key theme"?

You can use alternatives like "a central theme", "a major theme", or "a main idea" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "key theme" or "main theme"?

Both "key theme" and "main theme" are acceptable and often interchangeable. The choice depends on personal preference, although "key theme" might subtly suggest a more foundational or critical aspect compared to "main theme".