chiefly that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chiefly that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to specify the main point or reason in a discussion or argument. Example: "The report highlights several issues, chiefly that the current strategy is not sustainable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Chiefly, that means HDMI plugs (High-Definition Multimedia Interface, in case you were wondering), a connection that can transfer high-quality audio, video and data signals.

The New York Times

Chiefly that has centered around stoking tension between the Muslim and Buddhist populations in the country.

TechCrunch

Tech Bureau currently helps companies with consultancy and a range of technical services, but it is preparing to introduce new platforms to cover nearly every aspect of the process of an ICO, also known as token sales, and chiefly that of raising capital.

TechCrunch

But it has drawbacks, Cavagna says — chiefly that you can't see where you're going.

The New York Times

Even his new fans dwell as much in the past as the candidate offering chiefly that.

The Guardian

It would be wrong to say the men were not stung by criticism of the work, chiefly that of Jones.

The Guardian

Some judges seemed to be concerned chiefly that their cases proceeded according to schedule; Sherman was not one of them.

The New Yorker

For Sophia, living through the siege of Paris and the Commune "meant chiefly that prices went down".

The Guardian - Books

"We worked out the details, chiefly that Hialeah will run its 2000 meet at Gulfstream Park," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The museum whose last renovation lavished space on just about anything chiefly that colossal, stupid atrium except its collections, of which only a fraction can be on view at a given time?

The New Yorker

It is also a helpful separation method for the classification of groups within a society, providing a useful link that seems missing in extant theoretical constructs chiefly that of how institutions and all forms of social groups effect and are affected by social development outcomes (of which the development of markets and economic growth is but one).

Journal of Economic Structures

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "chiefly that", ensure the following clause is the most significant and impactful of the points you are making.

Common error

Avoid using "chiefly that" too frequently in casual writing or speech. It can sound overly formal and stilted in informal settings. Consider using simpler alternatives like "mainly" or "mostly" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chiefly that" functions as an adverbial connector introducing a clause that specifies the primary reason, cause, or aspect. It is used to highlight the most important point following a statement, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "chiefly that" is a grammatically correct connector used to introduce the primary reason or aspect in a statement. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it's relatively rare, appearing mainly in news, scientific, and encyclopedia contexts. When writing, ensure its level of formality aligns with your context, opting for simpler alternatives like "mainly that" or "primarily that" in informal settings. Use "chiefly that" to emphasize the most critical information, guiding your audience to the key takeaway.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mainly that

Replaces "chiefly" with "mainly", offering a direct synonym with minimal change in meaning.

primarily that

Uses "primarily" instead of "chiefly", suggesting the main or most important aspect.

mostly that

Substitutes "chiefly" with "mostly", indicating the majority reason or point.

in particular that

Replaces "chiefly" with "in particular", emphasizing a specific point.

especially that

Uses "especially" to highlight the most significant aspect or reason.

above all that

Emphasizes the supreme importance of the following reason.

the main thing is that

Rephrases to focus on the core issue or point more directly.

the primary concern is that

Focuses on concerns using a more formal tone.

most importantly that

Highlights the critical nature of the information.

fundamentally that

Indicates a basic or essential reason is being introduced.

FAQs

How can I use "chiefly that" in a sentence?

Use "chiefly that" to introduce the primary reason or factor among several others. For example, "The company faced several challenges, "chiefly that" its marketing strategy was outdated."

What's a good substitute for "chiefly that"?

Alternatives to "chiefly that" include "mainly that", "primarily that", or "mostly that". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "chiefly that" in formal writing?

Yes, "chiefly that" is suitable for formal writing. It is a clear and concise way to introduce the most important factor or reason in a discussion or argument.

What is the difference between "chiefly that" and "mainly that"?

"Chiefly that" and "mainly that" are very similar. "Chiefly" suggests the most important or prominent reason, while "mainly" suggests the principal or largest part. The distinction is subtle and context-dependent.