an overarching ideal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an overarching ideal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a central or dominant principle that encompasses various aspects or ideas within a particular context. Example: "The organization's mission is guided by an overarching ideal of sustainability that influences all its projects and initiatives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It's here that Zemeckis's deployment of the digital arts reveals its power and invests the movie with an overarching ideal.

The New Yorker

The way Nosek tells it, he was drawn to the Andreggs because they combined revolutionary science and a solid business structure with an overarching ideal – a holy grail.

Independent

Those who identify religion as a dimension or aspect of experience point to human attitudes toward an overarching ideal, to a total reaction to life, to an ultimate concern for the meaning of one's being, or to a quest for a power that integrates human personality.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

In America, I voted Green at the last election for the simple reason that it has become a party with a single overarching ideal - electoral reform, which means ending the private funding of politics in the US.

The Guardian - Books

"The search for a single, overarching ideal invariably leads to coercion.

BBC

Without that focus, that sense of character, we have nothing as readers to hold onto, and yet it is this particularity, this sense of the subjective, that makes the ideal of an overarching, summarizing novel an impossibility.

Los Angeles Times

The ideal candidate is a figure who can combine individual player development with implementing a distinct playing identity and an overarching strategy which involves bringing academy graduates through and signing players who represent an investment because they will eventually deliver a profit from their sell-on fee.

BBC

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an overarching ideal", ensure it is clearly defined and consistently applied within your writing to maintain coherence and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid presenting "an overarching ideal" as a solution to every problem; recognize its limitations and potential trade-offs in specific contexts. Acknowledge other factors at play.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an overarching ideal" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It acts as a subject complement or object, defining or describing a principle that guides actions, beliefs, or decisions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an overarching ideal" is a noun phrase that describes a guiding principle or core philosophy. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatically correct usage. While relatively rare, its presence is distributed across news, encyclopedias and scientific literature, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity in defining the ideal and recognize its limitations. Alternative phrasing includes "a central tenet" or "a guiding principle".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a central tenet

Replaces "overarching ideal" with a term emphasizing a core belief or principle.

a guiding principle

Focuses on the idea that the ideal serves as a guide for action or thought.

a fundamental concept

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the ideal.

a core philosophy

Highlights the ideal as a basic belief system.

a unifying vision

Suggests the ideal brings different elements together into a coherent whole.

a grand design

Implies a comprehensive and ambitious plan or purpose.

a supreme goal

Focuses on the ideal as the ultimate objective to be achieved.

a master plan

Implies a detailed and strategic approach guided by the ideal.

a universal principle

Suggests the ideal is applicable to all situations and individuals.

a higher purpose

Highlights the aspirational and meaningful nature of the ideal.

FAQs

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

You can use "an overarching ideal" to describe a guiding principle or a core philosophy that influences decisions and actions. For instance, "The company's mission is driven by "an overarching ideal" of sustainability".

What phrases can I use instead of "an overarching ideal"?

Alternatives to "an overarching ideal" include "a central tenet", "a guiding principle", or "a core philosophy" depending on the context.

What does "overarching" mean in the context of "an overarching ideal"?

In this context, "overarching" means comprehensive, all-encompassing, or having broad scope and influence. It suggests that the ideal is a primary and dominant factor.

Is it always positive to have "an overarching ideal"?

While it can provide direction and purpose, rigidly adhering to "an overarching ideal" can lead to overlooking practical considerations or unintended consequences. A balanced approach is often best.