an overarching

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an overarching" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is all-encompassing or that includes many different elements under a single concept or theme. Example: "The project aims to create an overarching strategy that addresses all aspects of sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Create an overarching plot.

WikiHow

Or an overarching plot.

The Guardian

There is no effort to tell an overarching story.

The New York Times - Arts

Seasons three and four don't bother with an overarching structure.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Their very ubiquity is a metaphor for an overarching reality linking the earthly and the divine.

The New York Times - Arts

Initiatives in Brussels to create an overarching regulator have been stamped out by politicians.

The New York Times

It will be akin to New York University's core campus, but with an overarching design.

The New York Times

But after four episodes, the producers realized they had an overarching story.

The New York Times

These multiple agonies for the parties will be accompanied by an overarching crisis.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is an overarching storyline but in true Hitman fashion it's very cryptic and pretty incidental.

The Guardian - Tech

"The executive should draw up an overarching strategy for digital radio.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for formal tone, "an overarching" is helpful in academic papers, business documents, and official reports where a broad perspective is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "an overarching" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler terms like "main" or "general" might be more appropriate in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "an overarching" is to act as an adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that the noun is comprehensive or all-encompassing. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes something including many different elements under a single concept or theme. Examples in Ludwig show it modifying "plot", "story", "strategy", and more.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

24%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an overarching" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase that signifies something comprehensive or all-encompassing. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's used to describe themes, strategies, or frameworks that provide a unified perspective. Predominantly found in news media and scientific contexts, it carries a neutral to formal register, making it suitable for professional and academic writing. When opting for alternative phrasing, consider "a comprehensive" or "a unifying" to maintain clarity and precision. Be mindful of overuse in informal settings, where simpler terms may be more fitting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a comprehensive

Focuses on thoroughness and completeness, emphasizing all aspects being covered.

a unifying

Highlights the act of bringing different elements together under a single theme or principle.

an encompassing

Similar to "all-embracing", highlighting the act of including everything within its scope.

an all-embracing

Emphasizes the inclusion of everything, leaving nothing out.

a far-reaching

Highlights the extensive impact or influence of something.

a global

Indicates worldwide scope or applicability.

a broad

Suggests wide-ranging coverage, but may lack the depth implied by "overarching".

a central

Suggests something that is fundamental and connects other parts.

a principal

Implies the most important or dominant element.

a widespread

Indicates prevalence across a large area or group, but not necessarily a unifying force.

FAQs

How can I use "an overarching" in a sentence?

You can use "an overarching" to describe a concept, strategy, or theme that encompasses many different elements. For example, "The company developed "an overarching marketing strategy" to reach a wider audience".

What can I say instead of "an overarching"?

You can use alternatives like "a comprehensive", "a unifying", or "an all-embracing" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "an overarching"?

It is appropriate to use "an overarching" in formal and academic writing when describing something that is all-encompassing or that provides a broad perspective. In informal contexts, simpler terms might be preferred.

Is "overarching" the same as "overseeing"?

No, "overarching" means comprehensive or all-encompassing, while "overseeing" means supervising or managing. They have different meanings and are not interchangeable.