introductory line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "introductory line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the opening sentence or phrase that sets the stage for a piece of writing or speech. Example: "The introductory line of her speech captured the audience's attention immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

She offers an introductory line to new-mommy friends: "Have you had sex yet?

The New York Times

The final version added an introductory line affirming the importance of the nonproliferation treaty and two more paragraphs stressing the need to pursue talks in tandem with sanctions.

The New York Times

"This is a great introductory line to first-time cannabis users because two of the items are topicals, which don't get you high," Elisabeth told Glamour.

The Guardian

A feature length episode from the vaults of the 1970s grabbed nearly 1 million viewers for Five at 3.45pm as, no doubt, aged fans tuned in yet again to hear the memorable introductory line: "We can rebuild him.

The Guardian

::— introductory line of Russell's nba.com/history summary.

Wikipedia

Wii Sports was designed as a simple introductory line meant to offer something for both gamers and non-gamers.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

And, indeed, his anger "hurled down to Hades the souls of so many fighters" (as Mitchell renders one of the poem's introductory lines, in the nicely strong five-beat line he favors).

The New Yorker

Thus, a story about the hero Gilgamesh refers in its introductory lines to the times "after heaven had been moved away from earth, after earth had been separated from heaven".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Clapton's solos often followed the same arc: terse, truncated introductory lines; a stream of eighth-notes upshifting to fast triplets; and a leap to a sustained, wailing note that might be wrenched suddenly higher, followed by a cascade of fast blues squiggles.

The New York Times - Arts

The introductory line-up includes Sony-branded products targeted at owners with dogs, cats and hamsters, with additional devices and networked services slated for release later this year.

TechCrunch

An excerpt from "Gerontion" reads as an ironic comment on the introductory lines of "Ulysses": Rocks, moss, stonecrop, iron, merds.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure your "introductory line" clearly sets the tone and purpose of your message to immediately engage the audience.

Common error

Avoid making your "introductory line" too convoluted or ambiguous. Clarity and directness are key to capturing attention and setting the stage for your content.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "introductory line" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the initial sentence or phrase designed to introduce a topic or engage an audience. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and usability in written English, as shown in multiple examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

21%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "introductory line" is a versatile term used to describe the opening sentence or phrase of a piece of writing or speech. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, and it commonly appears in contexts ranging from news articles and wiki pages to scientific publications. While not overly frequent, it's important to ensure your "introductory line" is clear, engaging, and relevant to the content that follows. Alternatives such as "opening remark" or "lead-in sentence" can be used depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

introductory remark

Focuses on introductory spoken sentences in a formal communication setting.

introductory statement

Focuses on introductory written sentences in a formal communication setting.

opening remark

Focuses on the spoken aspect of starting a communication.

initial statement

Emphasizes the beginning of a declaration or assertion.

lead-in sentence

Highlights the sentence that guides the reader into the main content.

preliminary comment

Suggests a preparatory note before the main discussion.

starting phrase

A broader term for the beginning of a spoken or written expression.

opening gambit

Implies a strategic or calculated beginning.

inaugural address

Refers to a formal speech at the beginning of a term or event.

motivating sentence

Highlights a sentence that drives the text forward, specifically designed to introduce.

FAQs

How can I improve my "introductory line" to grab the reader's attention?

Start with a compelling question, a surprising fact, or a bold statement. Make sure it's relevant to your topic and piques the reader's curiosity. Consider using alternatives like "opening remark" or "lead-in sentence".

What's the difference between an "introductory line" and a thesis statement?

An "introductory line" is the very first sentence that captures attention, while a thesis statement is a concise summary of the main argument or point of your work, typically appearing later in the introduction. You could also describe the first as a "starting phrase".

Is it okay to use a question as an "introductory line"?

Yes, using a question as an "introductory line" can be effective if it's engaging and relevant to your topic. It can immediately involve the reader and make them think. Alternatively, you could make a statement as an "initial statement".

What are some alternatives to calling it an "introductory line"?

Depending on the context, you could use terms like "opening remark", "lead-in sentence", or "preliminary comment". The best choice will depend on whether you're referring to speech or writing and the level of formality.