a secondary point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a secondary point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an argument or topic, indicating that the point being made is not the main focus but still relevant. Example: "While the main issue is the budget, a secondary point to consider is the timeline for project completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

There's a secondary point here.

The Guardian

But the above is a secondary point, especially since many of the passages which teach that there will be punishment are not from parables.

Yale University

"With previous first ladies, one of the things that happened is that they fell into a uniform and it was always a secondary point of view," she said.

The New York Times

That's why groups of manufacturers sign up voluntarily to schemes like Red Tractor or RSPCA Freedom Food, which push a national message only as a secondary point, whether quality or animal welfare.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

58 In addition, as a secondary point, s. 28.2(3) of the Act provides that a change in "the physical... structure containing a work... shall not, by that act alone, constitute a distortion, mutilation or other modification of the work".

Harvard University

The total power transmitted to a plate by both a primary and a secondary point force is minimized and the equivalent impedance presented by the secondary source to the plate is considered.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Survival data are routinely collected in most clinical trials and many are now including quality of life (QOL) as a secondary end point.

British Journal of Cancer

A single secondary point was generated close to each seed point by drawing from a uniform random distribution centered at that seed point.

Cerebral Cortex

The total power transmitted to a plate by both a primary and secondary point forces is used as a function to be minimised.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

The primary end point was regimen-related toxicity with a secondary end point of failure-free survival (FFS).

British Journal of Cancer

Death from colorectal cancer was the primary end point, and death from any cause was a secondary end point.

British Journal of Cancer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a secondary point" to introduce supporting arguments or details that, while relevant, are not central to your main thesis or argument. This helps to create a nuanced and well-rounded discussion.

Common error

Avoid giving undue weight to "a secondary point" to the extent that it overshadows your primary argument. Keep secondary points concise and clearly subordinate to the main focus.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a secondary point" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies an idea, argument, or consideration that is of lesser importance compared to the primary focus. Ludwig AI data confirms this usage through various examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

32%

Academia

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a secondary point" is a useful phrase for introducing less critical but relevant information or arguments in various contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase to provide supplementary details without overshadowing the primary focus. It’s commonly used in academic, scientific, and news-related discussions and suits a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure it enhances rather than distracts from your main argument, and clearly signal its subordinate status. By avoiding overemphasis, you can create a balanced and nuanced presentation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor detail

Emphasizes the smallness or insignificance of the point.

a subordinate issue

Highlights the lower rank or importance of the issue.

a tangential aspect

Suggests the point is only indirectly related to the main topic.

an incidental matter

Implies the point is a casual or chance occurrence.

a side note

Indicates the point is an additional comment or observation.

a less crucial element

Stresses that the element is not critical or essential.

a supplementary consideration

Suggests the point is an additional factor to think about.

a peripheral concern

Highlights that the concern is on the edge or boundary of the main issue.

a tertiary aspect

Implies the aspect is of third-level importance, even less important than a secondary one.

a non-essential item

Emphasizes that the item is not needed or required.

FAQs

How can I effectively introduce "a secondary point" in my writing?

You can introduce "a secondary point" by using phrases like "Furthermore", "In addition to", or "Another aspect to consider is". These transitions signal that you are moving to a less critical, but still relevant, idea.

What are some situations where it's appropriate to use "a secondary point"?

It's appropriate to use "a secondary point" when you want to provide additional context, address potential counterarguments, or offer supporting details that enrich the main topic without diverting focus. For example, you might use "a side note" to make the text more informative.

Is there a difference between "a secondary point" and "a minor detail"?

"A secondary point" typically refers to a related but less important argument, whereas "a minor detail" refers to a small, often insignificant fact. "A secondary point" can still contribute meaningfully to the overall discussion, unlike a trivial detail.

How can I prevent "a secondary point" from diluting my overall argument?

Keep "a secondary point" brief and ensure it directly relates to and supports your main argument. Clearly indicate its subordinate status with appropriate transitional phrases, and avoid spending excessive time or space on it.