key concepts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key concepts" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing topics topics with important ideas, principles, or facts. For example, "This article examines four key concepts of dream interpretation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Accessibility, portability and spontaneity were key concepts.

The New York Times

The key concepts of drawing are all there".

The Guardian

Here are the five key concepts detailed this week.

The Guardian - Tech

Freud deftly absorbed key concepts from these various rivals.

The New York Times - Books

Second, Mao redefined or replaced key concepts of Marx's theory.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In late March, Geithner previewed for Congress some of the key concepts that Treasury wanted.

The New Yorker

One such set of key concepts is the difference between an "inference" and an "imputation".

The Guardian

Stressing Lewinski "clarified" key concepts for them, the board exonerated Garcia of wrongdoing.

The Guardian

Key concepts and ideas take hold in the political sphere and become a rationale for policy.

The Guardian - Opinion

For each of these national cultural key concepts stands for a different path to political modernity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Case examples illustrate key concepts.

Cognitive and Behavioral Practice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a new topic, clearly define its "key concepts" to provide a solid foundation for understanding.

Common error

Avoid assuming your audience already understands the "key concepts". Briefly explain them, even if they seem obvious to you.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key concepts" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the most important and fundamental ideas or principles within a given context. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a common and grammatically correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

27%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "key concepts" is a grammatically correct and widely used noun phrase that identifies the most important ideas within a given subject. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in English writing. It appears frequently in scientific, news, and business contexts, signaling fundamental information that requires careful attention. Related phrases include "fundamental concepts" and "essential concepts". When using "key concepts", clearly define them for your audience and avoid assuming prior knowledge. Highlighting the "key concepts" in your writing will ensure your audience understands the foundation of your main topic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental concepts

Focuses on the basic and foundational ideas, slightly emphasizing their role as the groundwork for further understanding.

essential concepts

Highlights the indispensable nature of the ideas, suggesting they are crucial and cannot be omitted.

central ideas

Highlights the most important and pivotal notions within a topic.

primary notions

Highlights the importance of the concept

core principles

Shifts the focus to guiding beliefs or doctrines that underpin a system or theory.

underlying principles

Refers to the principles from which other ideas have developed

main elements

Refers to the most important components or parts of a whole.

cornerstones

Implies that something is an essential quality or feature on which a particular thing depends or is based

critical aspects

Points out significant elements that are of great importance to something or someone

basic tenets

Emphasizes the fundamental doctrines or beliefs held to be true, often in a philosophical or religious context.

FAQs

How can I effectively identify the "key concepts" in a text?

Look for recurring ideas, definitions, and principles that are essential to understanding the main topic. Summarizing each section can also help you pinpoint the "key concepts".

What are some alternative phrases to "key concepts"?

You can use alternatives such as "fundamental concepts", "essential concepts", or "core principles" depending on the context.

How important is it to define "key concepts" when writing an academic paper?

It is crucial. Defining "key concepts" ensures clarity and prevents misunderstandings, especially when dealing with complex or abstract topics. It also demonstrates a thorough understanding of the subject matter.

What is the difference between "key concepts" and "supporting details"?

"Key concepts" are the fundamental ideas necessary for understanding a topic, while supporting details provide evidence, examples, or explanations that elaborate on those concepts. "Key concepts" are the foundation, and supporting details build upon it.