as a quick primer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a quick primer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a brief overview or introductory explanation of a topic. Example: "In this article, I will provide you with some key concepts as a quick primer on the subject of climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

As a quick primer in dualism this is perfectly acceptable; the problem is it doesn't really add up.

The New York Times - Books

As a quick primer, Native Client allows developers to build web apps that execute native code inside the browser.

TechCrunch

As a quick primer, Burning Man is an arts and community-building festival held for 10 days in Nevada's Black Rock Desert.

TechCrunch

As a quick primer, Portal and Portal+ are smart video screens and Bluetooth speakers that offer an auto-zooming camera that follows you around the room as you video chat.

TechCrunch

As a quick primer on what exactly those are, we asked VICE offices across Europe to lay out some of the most useless degrees on the continent.

Vice

As a quick primer, schools of education must submit themselves for external review by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which became the sole accrediting body for teacher education in 2013 and ushered in a new set of standards.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

A quick primer as to how India once looked: The East India Company, a British mercenary army-slash-business, conquered vast swathes of the country from the 1750s.

Vice

To that end, below you'll find a quick primer on Speakeasy Bar standard practices, as well as tips for maintaining your Black Suspenders™ (S.B.I. operating license).

The New Yorker

A quick primer here: as it stands, Jerusalem's international status is one of fierce dispute.

Vice

A quick primer for the uninitiated: Gin, as it's known today, is in essence flavored vodka -- 100% neutral grain spirits flavored with a variety of herbs, spices and botanicals.

Huffington Post

So how about a quick primer on all things fat, so that you can, as I have, learn to appreciate, not disparage, these incredible and integral parts of our anatomy?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a quick primer" when you want to provide essential background information before diving into a more complex topic. It's useful in articles, presentations, or any situation where the audience may need a basic understanding first.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple paragraphs or sections with "as a quick primer". It can become repetitive. Instead, vary your introductory phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a quick primer" functions as an introductory phrase. It sets the stage for a simplified explanation of a topic. As Ludwig indicates, this structure signals the intention to provide essential background information.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as a quick primer" is a grammatically sound and usable construction designed to introduce a brief overview or explanation. As indicated by Ludwig, its primary role is to provide context and foundational knowledge, ensuring that the audience can readily grasp the ensuing details. Although most frequently encountered in news and media contexts, its neutrality allows for application across a spectrum of registers. While the phrase is helpful, overusing it can make writing repetitive; therefore, it is best to vary the introductory phrasing by employing alternative expressions such as "as a brief introduction" or "as a short overview". Consider the audience and context to make the best choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a brief introduction

This alternative is more concise and focuses on the introductory nature of the explanation.

as a short overview

This option highlights the condensed and comprehensive aspect of the explanation.

as an initial explanation

Focuses on the explanation being the starting point for understanding.

for a basic understanding

This phrase emphasizes the goal of achieving a fundamental comprehension of the subject.

in brief

This is a very succinct way to indicate a short and to-the-point explanation.

as a rudimentary guide

Suggests the explanation serves as a basic guide to the topic.

to put it simply

This alternative is ideal for simplifying complex topics for easier understanding.

in essence

Highlights the core aspects of the topic, quickly capturing its spirit.

to begin with

Offers a simple way to start an explanation.

at the outset

This option indicates a starting point and a quick look to the topic.

FAQs

What does "as a quick primer" mean?

The phrase "as a quick primer" means to provide a brief and introductory explanation of a topic, giving the audience essential background information.

How can I use "as a quick primer" in a sentence?

You can use "as a quick primer" at the beginning of a sentence or clause to introduce a summary or basic explanation. For example, "As a quick primer, the stock market is a place where shares of companies are bought and sold."

What can I say instead of "as a quick primer"?

You can use alternatives like "as a brief introduction", "as a short overview", or "for a basic understanding".

Is it better to say "a quick primer" or "as a quick primer"?

Both "a quick primer" and "as a quick primer" are grammatically correct, but they function differently. "A quick primer" is a noun phrase that refers to the explanation itself. "As a quick primer" is an introductory phrase used to introduce the explanation. Using "as" signals that you're about to provide a summary.