central proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "central proposition" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used in formal or academic writing to refer to the main claim or argument of a piece of writing. Example: In his essay, the author presents a compelling central proposition that challenges conventional views on the role of government in economic development.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Voters understood Labour's central proposition – that a force is needed to oppose the coalition at Westminster.

The Guardian

Its central proposition is that every particle in the Standard Model has a heavier, as-yet-unseen "superpartner".

The Guardian

Every President knows the elements of a good speech: a central proposition, an animating idea, a clear line of argument.

The New Yorker

Any less encompassing analytic framework undermines, to some extent, the central proposition that all levels of the natural system are fundamentally intertwined.

Yale University

Strickland's central proposition is that traditional, charcoal-fuelled barbecues taint the flavour of the food, whereby their flavourless gas is for the true gastronome.

The Guardian

He has said he embraces Leveson but doesn't want the central proposition that the judge laboured so long to produce: statutory underpinning for a self-regulatory body.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

One of Bob Diamond's central propositions is that "businesses must increase profits in a way that creates sustainable shareholder value".

The Guardian - Business

We will stand at the next election with our own policy offer but that doesn't mean that we should disengage from the central pillars of the government; we should co-own the central propositions of the government".

The Guardian

This paper proceeds from three central propositions: the first is that ongoing public deliberation is a powerful vehicle for social change and economic progress, and is fundamental to the attainment, and maintenance, of freedom.

Cornell University

Today you can sense that those central propositions are questioned". — Former Federal Reserve chairman Paul Volcker '49, who told a Robertson Hall audience Feb. 7 that healthy skepticism of government has turned corrosive.

Princeton University

The central measure, Proposition 1A, would have increased the state's rainy-day fund but also restrict spending in future years, and extend several temporary taxes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "central proposition" to introduce the core idea of your argument in a concise and impactful manner. Then, elaborate on this central point with supporting evidence and reasoning throughout your discussion.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "central proposition" that is too broad or ill-defined. A clear and specific proposition allows for more focused analysis and stronger supporting arguments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "central proposition" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces the primary idea or argument that a piece of writing or speech will focus on. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

28%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "central proposition" is a noun phrase used to denote the main argument or idea in a piece of writing or speech. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions to introduce the core concept and guide the audience's understanding. Predominantly used in formal and scientific contexts, such as academic papers and news articles, "central proposition" is a common expression for setting the stage for an argument. Related phrases like "core argument" or "main thesis" can be used as alternatives. When using "central proposition", ensure it is clear and well-supported throughout your work to maintain focus and strengthen your overall argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core argument

Focuses on the argumentative nature of the central idea.

main thesis

Emphasizes the primary claim or statement being put forward.

key concept

Highlights the fundamental idea or principle.

primary assertion

Stresses the act of stating something confidently and forcefully.

fundamental principle

Underlines the basic or essential nature of the idea.

central theme

Highlights the underlying subject or idea that recurs in a work.

governing idea

Emphasizes the controlling or influencing nature of the idea.

underlying assumption

Focuses on the implied or presupposed belief upon which something is based.

basic premise

Emphasizes a previous statement or proposition from which another is inferred or follows as a conclusion.

driving force

Highlights the impetus behind an action or situation, often broader than a single proposition.

FAQs

How can I effectively introduce the "central proposition" in my essay?

Start with a clear and concise statement that encapsulates the core argument. Follow this with a brief overview of the supporting evidence or reasoning you'll use to defend the "core argument".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "central proposition"?

Depending on the context, you might use phrases like "main thesis", "key concept", or "core argument" to convey a similar meaning.

How does the "central proposition" relate to the overall argument of a piece of writing?

The "central proposition" is the backbone of your argument. It's the primary claim that all supporting evidence and reasoning should directly relate to and strengthen.

What makes a "central proposition" effective?

An effective "central proposition" is clear, concise, specific, and arguable. It should provide a clear focus for your writing and invite further exploration and discussion.