a recurrent theme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a recurrent theme" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a subject or idea that appears repeatedly in a particular context, such as literature, art, or discussions. Example: "In her latest novel, the author explores a recurrent theme of loss and redemption throughout the characters' journeys."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Books

Arts

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Red is a recurrent theme.

The Guardian - Arts

Male infidelity is a recurrent theme.

The New York Times - Books

England is a recurrent theme for Key.

Independent

Tax evasion was a recurrent theme.

The New York Times

The 16th century is a recurrent theme.

The Guardian

Sexual depravity is a recurrent theme.

The Guardian

The April Fool's joke is a recurrent theme, it appears.

The Guardian

This, too, is a recurrent theme with deep roots.

The Guardian - Books

Exile is a recurrent theme in Buarque's life and work.

The Guardian - Books

Youth -- childhood and adolescence -- is a recurrent theme.

The New York Times - Arts

The Gosselin's honest relationship is a recurrent theme.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a recurrent theme", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being repeated and why it's significant. This adds depth and clarity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a recurrent theme" without providing specific examples or evidence of the repetition. This can make your writing seem vague and unsubstantiated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a recurrent theme" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies a subject or concept that appears repeatedly. Ludwig AI examples confirm its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Books

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Arts

6%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a recurrent theme" is a versatile and widely used expression to denote an idea, topic, or element that appears repeatedly in various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that its grammatical status is correct, and its frequency is very common. Usage spans across different areas, notably News & Media, books and Science. Alternatives such as "a recurring motif" or "a common thread" offer subtle variations in meaning. To enhance clarity in writing, always provide context and specific examples when using "a recurrent theme". By avoiding overuse without substance, you can effectively highlight significant patterns and add depth to your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a recurring motif

Replaces "theme" with "motif", emphasizing a decorative or design element that repeats.

a repeated idea

Substitutes "theme" with "idea", focusing on the conceptual aspect that is repeated.

a common thread

Uses a metaphor to indicate a unifying element that appears throughout.

a prevailing topic

Replaces "recurrent" with "prevailing" and "theme" with "topic", highlighting the dominance of the subject.

a consistent element

Emphasizes the uniformity and constant presence of a particular element.

a familiar refrain

Uses "refrain" to suggest a recurring phrase or idea, often in a literary or musical context.

a dominant feature

Highlights the prominence and repetitive nature of a specific feature.

a signature characteristic

Suggests that the recurring element is a distinctive and recognizable trait.

an underlying pattern

Focuses on the structural repetition or arrangement of something.

a regular feature

Highlights the predictable and repetitive nature of a particular feature.

FAQs

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

You can use "a recurrent theme" to describe an idea, topic, or element that appears repeatedly in a text, discussion, or situation. For example, "Mortality is "a recurrent theme" in his novels".

What are some alternatives to "a recurrent theme"?

Alternatives include "a recurring motif", "a repeated idea", or "a common thread". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "a recurrent theme" or "a recurring theme"?

Both "a recurrent theme" and "a recurring theme" are grammatically correct and have very similar meanings. "Recurring" might be slightly more common in contemporary usage, but "recurrent" is perfectly acceptable.

What does it mean when something is described as "a recurrent theme"?

It means that the particular thing—an idea, image, or subject—appears multiple times and is important or significant within the context being discussed.