a principal part of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a principal part of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is a major or essential component of a larger whole. Example: "The research findings indicate that a principal part of the solution lies in improving community engagement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The Liber Judiciorum was a principal part of the Visigothic legacy received by medieval Spain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A new generation of anthropologists came to see activism on their subjects' behalf as a principal part of the job.

The New York Times - Magazine

The country's sports minister, Vitaly Mutko, said at the time a principal part of Russia's appeal was holding the World Cup in a former communist country for the first time.

The Guardian - Sport

Chicago, for better or worse, is a principal part of the McCain campaign's effort to bring Mr Obama down.Chicago itself remains the centre of efforts to lift him up.

The Economist

"A principal part of their defence system is their grooming habits, which allow the termites to get rid of the fungal spores before these spores germinate and cause disease or death.

Independent

That will be a principal part of our portfolio.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

1292 August 23, 1358 Isabella Of France, (born 1292 died Aug. 23, 1358) queen consort of Edward II of England, who played a principal part in the deposition of the King in 1327.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Note that the principal part of a corresponding differential operator is non self-adjoint.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Note that the principal part of a corresponding differential operator is nonselfadjoint.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

An acceptable implementation of the sum derivative terms is the principal part of a partial DE substitution.

Mathematical Sciences

In December Dow Jones trumpeted an agreement with NBC, the principal part of which was that it would provide news content to CNBC.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a principal part of", ensure that the context clearly establishes the larger whole to which the "principal part" belongs. This provides clarity and emphasizes the significance of the component being discussed.

Common error

Avoid using "a principal part of" when referring to minor or insignificant components. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and mislead the reader about the true importance of the element being discussed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a principal part of" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a noun or noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates that something is a major or essential component of a larger whole.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a principal part of" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to highlight the importance of a component within a larger context. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its suitability across various writing styles, though it's advisable to avoid overusing it to maintain its impact. While alternatives like "a major component of" and "a key element of" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you aim to convey. Remember to ensure that the context clearly establishes the larger whole to which the principal part belongs, enhancing clarity and emphasizing its significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major component of

Replaces "principal" with "major", implying significant importance, but maintains the core meaning.

a key element of

Substitutes "principal" with "key", emphasizing the essential nature of the component.

a central aspect of

Replaces "part" with "aspect", focusing on the importance of the feature within the overall concept.

a crucial element in

Emphasizes the critical importance of the element.

a chief component in

Synonymous with "principal" but may sound more formal or emphatic.

an integral facet of

Uses more formal vocabulary ("integral", "facet") to convey the essential and multifaceted nature of the component.

a vital ingredient of

Emphasizes the necessity of the element for the whole to function correctly.

a cornerstone of

Highlights the fundamental and supporting role of the component.

a significant feature of

Focuses on the noteworthiness of the element.

a leading segment of

Presents the item as a dominant section rather than just a piece.

FAQs

How can I use "a principal part of" in a sentence?

Use "a principal part of" to indicate that something is a major or essential component of a larger entity. For example, "Effective communication is "a principal part of" successful teamwork".

What are some alternatives to "a principal part of"?

You can use alternatives like "a major component of", "a key element of", or "a central aspect of depending on the context".

Is it correct to say "a principal part of the whole"?

Yes, the phrase "a principal part of the whole" is grammatically correct, but it might be redundant. The phrase "a principal part" already implies that it belongs to something larger. Consider simplifying it to "a principal part".

What's the difference between "a principal part of" and "a minor part of"?

"A principal part of" indicates a significant or essential component, whereas "a minor part of" refers to a less important or insignificant component. The choice depends on the importance you want to convey.