a prevailing theme in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a prevailing theme in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a dominant or recurring idea or motif within a particular context, such as literature, art, or discussions. Example: "In her latest novel, a prevailing theme in the story is the struggle for identity in a rapidly changing world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The debasement of marriage by the well-born is a prevailing theme in "Los Caprichos".

The New York Times

Memory is a prevailing theme in the play: the aged matriarch suffers from dementia and the grown daughter is flighty.

The New York Times

If a new generation of crafty, resourceful composers piloting their own destinies has been a prevailing theme in recent years, 2009 showed that some mainstream institutions are ready and willing to embrace them.

The New York Times - Arts

We would not dismiss that network consolidation will be a prevailing theme in 2015 but our analysis suggests that at the current share price investors already assign a 50% probability for Carphone UK to be worthless.

The Guardian - Business

The look appeared on runways a number of times during the 1990's, and it is bubbling up again as a prevailing theme in women's lines this spring -- Comme des Garçons, Miguel Adrover and Christian Dior all include it.

The New York Times - Style

Beginning in Caged Bird, motherhood is a "prevailing theme" in Angelou's autobiographies.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

But vacancies are a prevailing theme - even in civic buildings.

BBC

But a prevailing theme among many in the protest appeared to be issues of race.

Huffington Post

Holes, in fact, were a prevailing theme.

The New York Times

Ledgerwood's panel guests included Ali Eteraz, whose Native Believer returned my mind to a prevailing theme of the day – the Muslim experience in America.

The Guardian - Books

In these studies, a prevailing theme is that more diverse heterogeneous sources will enhance Intrusion Detection capabilities through event correlation and a better comprehension of situational awareness of cyber threats.

Journal of Big Data

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a prevailing theme in", ensure that the theme you're identifying is genuinely prominent and consistently present throughout the work or context you're discussing. Provide clear examples to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "a prevailing theme in" to describe minor or infrequent elements. Reserve the phrase for themes that are truly central and recurring; otherwise, you risk weakening your analysis or argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a prevailing theme in" functions as a noun phrase and serves to introduce a dominant or recurring idea within a particular context. It highlights the significance of a specific element or concept. Ludwig AI's response confirms the correct usage of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a prevailing theme in" is used to highlight a dominant or recurring idea within a specific context. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While it's not the most common phrase, it is frequently used in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the theme being identified is genuinely prominent and consistently present, otherwise, consider alternatives like "a common thread in" or "a dominant idea in". Using "a prevailing theme in" effectively involves accurately identifying key aspects and providing clear support for your claim.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a common thread in

Replaces 'prevailing theme' with 'common thread', emphasizing a recurring element.

a recurring motif in

Substitutes 'theme' with 'motif', highlighting a recurring element, especially in artistic contexts.

a dominant idea in

Replaces 'theme' with 'idea', focusing on the prominence of a particular concept.

a central concept in

Highlights the 'central' or core nature of the concept.

a noteworthy aspect of

Shifts from a theme to a more general 'aspect', emphasizing something worth noting.

a significant element in

Replaces 'theme' with 'element', indicating an important component.

a consistent feature of

Focuses on the consistent or repeated nature of the 'feature'.

a notable trend in

Changes from a theme to a 'trend', suggesting a pattern or direction.

a key characteristic of

Emphasizes that the characteristic is important or essential.

a primary focus of

Highlights that the characteristic is the focus.

FAQs

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

You can use "a prevailing theme in" to introduce a dominant idea or recurring motif within a specific context. For example, "A prevailing theme in the novel is the struggle for identity."

What are some alternatives to "a prevailing theme in"?

Alternatives include "a common thread in", "a recurring motif in", or "a dominant idea in", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a prevailing theme in" or "the prevailing theme"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "a prevailing theme in" is generally used when introducing one of several dominant themes, while "the prevailing theme" suggests that there is one primary theme above all others.

How does "a prevailing theme in" differ from "a minor theme in"?

"A prevailing theme in" suggests a dominant, recurring idea, whereas "a minor theme in" refers to a less significant, less frequent element. The choice depends on the prominence of the theme you are describing.