connecting thread

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "connecting thread" is a perfectly grammatical and usable phrase in written English.
It could be used to describe a common theme or idea that runs throughout a speech, a story, or a book. For example, "The author skillfully weaves a connecting thread of historical context throughout the book to enrich the reader's understanding of the text."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's still a jumble of ideas without a connecting thread.

The Guardian

"Tolstoy is a connecting thread between the Russian and Chechen people," said Mr. Zagibov.

The New York Times

Secret histories of materials course through Ortega's current London show, Traces of Gravity, where salt is the connecting thread.

The Guardian - Arts

It is this that provides the sometimes thin connecting thread between the various topics in the book.

The Economist

The error margins on the ADC readings were minimal ±2 without connecting thread spools and that accuracy synced well with movement on the software interface.

Cornell University

The connecting thread between this vast array of works in so many disparate genres was politics, a commitment to which never left him, although varying in degree over time.

The Guardian - Music

In his eccentric and often affecting memoir "Tastes Like Cuba," Machado, a noted Cuban-American playwright, tells the story of his rootless, self-invented life, using food as his connecting thread.

The New York Times

At the 10-hour piano extravaganza inaugurating a new performance space at the Faust Harrison Pianos showroom on Sunday, that momentum may be the main connecting thread in a deliberately eclectic narrative.

The New York Times - Arts

In arabesque — the ballerina role here abounds in arabesques of particular grandeur — her raised leg and front arm often seem impelled by two different thoughts, with the connecting thread between waist and elbow looking especially awkward.

The New York Times - Arts

The connecting thread through it all is Spencer, who largely gave up acting to run the club (though she landed a small role as Slatternly Woman in the 1987 film "Ironweed").

The New York Times - Arts

If Coventry University today is a far cry from the Lanchester Polytechnic that Latham joined in 1979, the one connecting thread is the focus on the real-world application of knowledge.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure that the connection you're describing is both logical and evident to your reader.

Common error

Avoid using "connecting thread" in contexts where the connection is already obvious or implied. Overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "connecting thread" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies the element that unifies different aspects or ideas, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "connecting thread" is a versatile and frequently used term to describe a unifying element or theme that links disparate ideas or events. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While there are several alternative phrases that share a similar meaning, the best choice depends on the specific context and the desired emphasis. Use "connecting thread" thoughtfully to enhance clarity and coherence in your writing, but avoid overuse to maintain impact. The phrase serves to bridge different points in an argument or narrative, creating a cohesive message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

common thread

A more common and slightly more casual variant.

unifying theme

Focuses on the thematic aspect of connection, rather than a literal thread.

common denominator

Highlights the shared aspect among different elements.

underlying link

Emphasizes the hidden or not immediately obvious connection.

central theme

Highlights the main subject that everything revolves around.

shared characteristic

Focuses on a specific shared trait.

recurring motif

Suitable for artistic or literary contexts where a pattern repeats.

key element

Emphasizes importance of connection.

binding force

Highlights the power of the element to connect.

overarching principle

Implies a fundamental rule or idea that ties things together.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "connecting thread" in a sentence?

Use "connecting thread" to highlight the relationship between seemingly unrelated concepts or events. For instance, "The connecting thread between these seemingly disparate events is a shared desire for change."

What are some alternatives to "connecting thread"?

You can use alternatives like "unifying theme", "common thread", or "underlying link" depending on the specific context.

In what contexts is the phrase "connecting thread" most appropriate?

The phrase "connecting thread" is suitable in various contexts, including academic writing, news reporting, and creative writing, where it helps to establish a clear link between different elements or ideas.

How does "connecting thread" differ from "common theme"?

"Connecting thread" emphasizes the link or relationship between different elements, whereas "common theme" focuses on a recurring subject or idea. The connecting thread is what ties different pieces together.