a principal concern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a principal concern" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the most important issue or matter in a particular context. Example: "The environmental impact of the project is a principal concern for the stakeholders involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Preventing these attacks has been a principal concern of transplant science.

The New York Times

Mr. Karzai said militias outside of government control remained a principal concern as the government tried to extend its authority.

The New York Times

By many accounts, the show's pace has been a principal concern, and an area of major improvement.

The New York Times

Benevolence and the relief of distress were always a principal concern of the old guilds, and the livery companies of today continue this tradition.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In recent decades, however, a principal concern of the Met's directors has been encouraging more visitors to come to the museum, and to make return visits.

The New Yorker

(Part of its program was inherited from a League of Nations organization called the International Institute of Intellectual Cooperation, a principal concern of which was libraries).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

The initial international activity in navigation also distinguishes air transport: finding a way to a destination was an area of principal concern in the early years of aviation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His Machiavelli is the ultimate patriot, a man whose principal concern was the freedom of his beloved Florence.

The New York Times - Books

He says that, although a possible wrongful conviction is always a serious matter, his principal concern in this case is the possibility that it "may have left a dangerous offender at large and free to kill again".

The Guardian

He acknowledged a major catch: "My principal concern at this stage of the campaign is that the stability, reconstruction, and political rehabilitation will lag behind the military campaign".

The New Yorker

If one regarded the manifold issues of computerized democracy in a reductionist way, perhaps the principal concern would be whether, in a close election, the Presidency can be stolen by means of computer vote fraud in several major jurisdictions.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a principal concern", ensure the context clearly establishes whose concern it is. For example, specify "a principal concern of the residents" or "a principal concern of the company".

Common error

While grammatically correct, "a principal concern" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using phrases like "main worry" or "biggest issue" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a principal concern" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a key issue or worry within a specific context. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in highlighting the primary focus of attention.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a principal concern" is a noun phrase used to emphasize the importance of a particular issue or worry. Ludwig's analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedia contexts. While versatile, it leans toward a neutral to formal register. When writing, ensure the context clearly establishes whose concern it is and avoid overuse in casual conversation. Consider alternatives like "major concern" or "key issue" for informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major worry

Replaces 'concern' with 'worry', emphasizing the element of anxiety.

a primary consideration

Substitutes 'concern' with 'consideration', focusing on importance in decision-making.

a key issue

Uses 'issue' instead of 'concern', highlighting a point of debate or problem.

a central problem

Emphasizes that the concern is a core problem.

a foremost anxiety

Replaces 'principal' with 'foremost' and 'concern' with 'anxiety', intensifying the sense of unease.

a leading priority

Highlights the concern as a top priority.

a top-level worry

More informal, but conveys the high level of importance.

a significant preoccupation

Uses 'preoccupation' to suggest a dominating concern.

a chief reservation

Implies a hesitation or doubt that is the main concern.

a dominant apprehension

Suggests that the concern is a fear or anxiety that is very strong.

FAQs

How can I use "a principal concern" in a sentence?

You can use "a principal concern" to highlight a major worry or priority. For example, "Environmental impact is a principal concern for many.

What are some alternatives to "a principal concern"?

Alternatives include "a major concern", "a key issue", or "a primary consideration", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "principal concern" or "main concern"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "principal concern" is more formal. Use "main concern" in informal settings, and "principal concern" in formal or professional contexts.

What is the difference between "a principal concern" and "a secondary concern"?

"A principal concern" refers to the most important issue, while "a secondary concern" is a less important or subordinate issue.