it is chiefly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is chiefly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is primarily or mainly the case, often in a formal or academic context. Example: "The success of the project is chiefly due to the team's dedication and hard work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

In another essay, he states that it is "chiefly in its presence that the world's reality resides".

The Guardian - Books

But we were missing the point; while a red velvet cake should taste of cocoa, vanilla and buttermilk, it is chiefly distinctive for its soft, silky texture and aggressive crimson colour.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Producers of Taylor-Johnson's film, which stars Jamie Dornan as the mysterious alpha male, Christian Grey, have based its publicity campaign on the assumption that it is chiefly women who will want to see it – in spite of a growing boycott campaign this weekend by feminists, who argue that James's story glamorises abuse.

The Guardian - Film

It is chiefly a low, undulating plateau, and its northern coast is deeply indented by inlets, the largest of which is Port Essington (19 miles by 7 miles [31 km by 11 km]), site of an early settlement.

Britannica

There are some good statues of marble within; and one or two of bronze on the outside of the doors; but it is chiefly celebrated for the embossed work of its brass gates, by Lorenzo Ghiberti,º which Buonaroti used to say, deserved to be made the gates of Paradise.

University of Chicago

Instead of being used for an entire season, it is chiefly a two-day retreat.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

It was chiefly its wealth that tempted Frederick II (the Great) of Prussia to wrest Silesia from the Habsburg heiress Maria Teresa in the War of the Austrian Succession (1740 48).

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was chiefly a product of its leaders' passion and cunning.

The Economist

SPEER: No, it was chiefly a technical organization.

Yale University

It was chiefly due to him that the shehnai became so highly regarded.

The Guardian

But it's chiefly a gentleman's agreement, reliant on neighbourly goodwill.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is chiefly" in academic or formal writing, follow it with precise language and evidence to support your claim. Avoid vague generalities.

Common error

Avoid using "it is chiefly" when you mean "it is solely" or "it is exclusively". "Chiefly" implies a primary focus, not necessarily an exclusive one; using it inappropriately can misrepresent the scope of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is chiefly" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the primary or main aspect of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase effectively introduces the principal reason or characteristic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

21%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

12%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is chiefly" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to emphasize the primary or main aspect of something. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable for formal and academic contexts. Its usage spans various domains, including news, encyclopedias, and academic writing, showcasing its broad applicability. Alternatives such as "it is primarily" or "it is mainly" offer similar meanings with slight differences in emphasis. When employing this phrase, ensure that it aligns with the intended level of formality and that the subsequent content supports the primary point being made.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is primarily

Emphasizes that something is of first importance or is the main concern, slightly more direct.

it is mainly

Indicates that something is the principal component or factor, less formal.

it is mostly

Suggests that something is true in the majority of cases, implying a higher degree of prevalence.

it is principally

Highlights the main or fundamental aspect, more formal and emphatic.

it is essentially

Focuses on the core nature or intrinsic quality, conveying a sense of underlying truth.

it is largely

Indicates that something is true to a great extent, suggesting a broad scope.

it is predominantly

Stresses the dominant characteristic or feature, implying a strong presence.

it is particularly

Highlights something specific or noteworthy, adding a tone of special relevance.

it is especially

Emphasizes something that stands out from the rest, indicating a high degree of importance.

it is above all

Implies that while other things may be relevant, the point being made is more important than any other considerations.

FAQs

How can I use "it is chiefly" in a sentence?

Use "it is chiefly" to indicate that something is primarily or mainly the case. For example, "The success of the project "it is chiefly" due to the team's dedication".

What alternatives can I use instead of "it is chiefly"?

You can use alternatives like "it is primarily", "it is mainly", or "it is mostly" depending on the context.

What does "it is chiefly" mean?

"It is chiefly" means that something is mainly or primarily the case. It emphasizes the most important aspect or component of a situation or subject.

Is "it is chiefly" formal or informal?

"It is chiefly" tends to be more formal and is often used in academic or professional writing. In more casual contexts, phrases like "it's mostly" or "it's mainly" might be more appropriate.