as a general theme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a general theme" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a broad idea or overarching concept that applies to a discussion or analysis. Example: "As a general theme, the novel explores the complexities of human relationships and the impact of societal norms."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

But it was a very political speech, with climate change in particular getting picked out for mention, as well as a general theme of equality.

The Guardian

(Reclamation of overlooked artists emerges as a general theme of Frieze this year, no doubt spurred by their relatively affordable prices).

The New Yorker

We also think that growth at a reasonable price as a general theme will return in part because the multiple expansion that I was referring to earlier is likely to be temporary.

The New York Times

It has now emerged as a general theme that ErbB receptors cooperate in in vitro cellular transformation as well as in vivo in human tumors.

Breast Cancer Research

As a general theme, the comments applauded the NIH's effort to pull together a large, racially diverse study, while also raising concerns about how ECHO will integrate data sets derived from different sources and address the effects of early-life exposures, especially during gestation.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Since taking office, Mr. Zoellick — a former trade envoy, diplomat and Goldman Sachs executive — has called for the bank to do more in this area as part of a general theme that the bank can stretch itself to become more relevant in a world where poor countries can turn to a lot of places for loans.

The New York Times

Explaining the significance of the Detroit native's music, he said: "With Ben, listening to Eminem, for example, inspires confidence and determination as there is a general theme of triumphing against the odds while other songs made him think of his daughter and reminded him why he's doing this historic challenge — to show that ordinary people can achieve the extraordinary".

Independent

The use of CHs as recognition pheromones by insects is a general theme not limited to Drosophila [ 39- 41].

BMC Biology

Recent identification of CSCs from gliomas (Singh et al, 2004; Yuan et al, 2004; Lee et al, 2006), prostate cancers (Collins et al, 2005), colon cancers (O'Brien et al, 2007; Ricci-Vitiani et al, 2007), and breast cancers (Yu et al, 2007) suggested that CSCs as cancer-initiating cells may be a general theme in human cancers.

British Journal of Cancer

It could be a general theme that SNX family proteins function as cargo-specific regulators in retromer-dependent vesicular trafficking.

Cell Regeneration

"There's a general theme out there.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a general theme" to introduce a concept that provides a broad understanding or framework for interpreting various aspects of a topic. This helps create coherence and focus in your writing.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "as a general theme" without providing specific examples or analysis. Ensure that the general theme is clearly connected to the details and arguments presented, or it risks being perceived as vague or irrelevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a general theme" functions primarily as an introductory phrase. It serves to introduce a broad, overarching concept that provides a framework for understanding or interpreting specific details or arguments within a text or discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

17%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as a general theme" serves as an introductory element, signaling an overarching concept that unifies various aspects of a discussion or text. Ludwig AI validates its correct grammatical usage, noting its presence in diverse fields like science, news, and general reference. While not overwhelmingly common, it effectively establishes a contextual framework. It is mostly used in Science and News, and less frequently in Formal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the "general theme" is well-defined and consistently relevant to the points being presented, avoiding vagueness. Considering alternatives such as "as a common thread" or "as an overarching idea" can add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as an overarching idea

Replaces 'theme' with 'idea', highlighting the comprehensive nature of the concept.

as a unifying concept

Replaces 'general theme' with 'unifying concept', stressing the cohesive function of the idea.

as a common thread

Replaces 'theme' with 'thread', emphasizing a unifying element rather than a dominant idea.

as a guiding principle

Replaces 'general theme' with 'guiding principle', stressing how the theme directs or influences action or thought.

as a recurring motif

Substitutes 'theme' with 'motif', suggesting a repeated element, particularly in artistic or literary contexts.

as a prevailing notion

Replaces 'theme' with 'notion', suggesting a widely held or dominant idea.

as a basic principle

Focuses on the foundational aspect of the theme, using 'principle' to indicate a fundamental rule.

as a central tenet

Replaces 'theme' with 'tenet', suggesting a core principle or belief that guides the subject matter.

as a primary focus

Shifts from 'theme' to 'focus', highlighting the main point of attention or emphasis.

as an underlying current

Uses 'current' to emphasize a subtle but pervasive theme, indicating a less obvious but influential element.

FAQs

How can I use "as a general theme" in a sentence?

You can use "as a general theme" to introduce a recurring idea or concept that connects different aspects of a topic. For example, "As a general theme, the author explores the impact of technology on human relationships."

What are some alternatives to saying "as a general theme"?

You can use alternatives such as "as an overarching idea", "as a common thread", or "as a unifying concept" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "as a general theme" or "the general theme is"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "as a general theme" often functions as an introductory phrase, while "the general theme is" presents the theme as a direct statement. The choice depends on the sentence structure and desired emphasis.

How can I identify the "general theme" of a text?

To identify the general theme, look for recurring ideas, concepts, or motifs that connect various elements of the text. Consider the author's purpose and the central message they are trying to convey.