a primary assumption

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a primary assumption" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a fundamental belief or premise that serves as the basis for further reasoning or argumentation. Example: "In our research, we identified a primary assumption that underlies our theoretical framework."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

A primary assumption of the evolutionary model behind neo-Darwinism is that development can be traced back through a series of subtly incremental changes.

The Guardian - Books

A primary assumption of existentialists is that human beings are more than the situation they find themselves in; they are more than their biological make-up; and they are more than the low expectations placed upon them.

SEP

For example, a primary assumption of single-strain MRSA models is that MRSA emergence occurs outside a hospital, entering the hospital via importation.

American Journal of Epidemiology

By looking at the differentially regulated genes related to pathogen responses induced by cold stress, a primary assumption was made that the co-evolution of severely affecting co-occurring stress related genes and processes was highly possible.

BMC Genomics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The proposed method demonstrates simpler network architecture, easy computational implementation, faster training speed, as well as no need to consider any primary assumption about the behavior of data and their probability distribution type, with more satisfactory predicting performance for generating gold potential map of the area.

Journal of African Earth Sciences

In addition to this primary assumption a number of secondary assumptions were made regarding the relationships between the vectors considered in this analysis.

Plosone

We determine the pore size distribution for five activated carbons (comprising carbide derived as well as commercial activated carbon samples) by the interpretation of experimental small angle neutron scattering (SANS) intensity profiles, based on the primary assumption of an infinitely dilute solution of hollow spherical particles.

Carbon

A unique method for determining these separate functions is presented, with the primary assumption that the aeroacoustic sources follow a power law relationship with rotor tip relative speed.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

In our context, the primary assumption in this model is that a couple's birth spacing decisions are independent of those characteristics of the individual children in the family that are also related to educational outcomes.[16] As a result, the omitted parental characteristics as, for example, concern for or time spent with the children can be captured in a family-specific error term.

IZA Journal of Migration

The primary assumption of CLP is that it is a linear layout.

Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing

The primary assumption for the method is that there is a monotonic relation between the firing rate and the luminance pattern.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a primary assumption", ensure that it is explicitly stated and clearly understood, as it forms the basis for subsequent arguments or analyses.

Common error

Avoid building arguments on assumptions that are not explicitly stated. Always make your primary assumptions clear to avoid misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a primary assumption" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a foundational belief or premise. It is often used to introduce a key concept upon which an argument, model, or theory is based. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

17%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a primary assumption" is a noun phrase that refers to a fundamental belief or premise upon which an argument, model, or theory is based. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in formal and scientific contexts. It is crucial to clearly state any primary assumptions to ensure transparency and avoid misunderstandings. While the phrase is relatively rare, it plays a vital role in establishing a solid foundation for logical reasoning and analysis. Alternative phrases such as "a core assumption" or "a fundamental assumption" can be used to convey a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a core assumption

Replaces "primary" with "core", emphasizing the centrality of the assumption.

a basic assumption

Substitutes "primary" with "basic", highlighting the fundamental nature of the assumption.

a fundamental assumption

Emphasizes the foundational role of the assumption, using the word "fundamental".

a key assumption

Replaces "primary" with "key", indicating the importance of the assumption.

a central assumption

Highlights that the assumption is at the center of the argument or model.

a main assumption

Uses "main" instead of "primary", focusing on the principal nature of the assumption.

a leading assumption

Suggests that the assumption guides or directs the reasoning.

a chief assumption

Indicates that the assumption is the most important or prominent.

the underlying assumption

Focuses on the foundational nature of the assumption, using the word "underlying".

the principal assumption

Synonymous replacement, focusing on the principal importance of the assumption.

FAQs

How can I effectively state "a primary assumption" in academic writing?

Begin by clearly introducing it, such as with phrases like, "The primary assumption of this study is..." or "We operate under "the primary assumption" that...". Ensure the assumption is understandable and directly relevant to your analysis.

What distinguishes "a primary assumption" from other types of assumptions?

"A primary assumption" is the core, foundational belief upon which an argument or model is built. It differs from secondary or supporting assumptions, which provide additional context or details. The primary assumption is essential for the entire structure to hold.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state "a primary assumption"?

While not always strictly required, explicitly stating "a primary assumption" enhances clarity and transparency in your reasoning. This is particularly important in academic or professional contexts where scrutiny and validation are expected.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a primary assumption"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a core assumption", "a basic assumption", or "a fundamental assumption" to convey a similar meaning.