key premise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key premise" is an acceptable phrase in written English.
You may use the phrase to refer to the fundamental idea that something is based upon. For example: "The key premise of this argument is that the current policy must be modified if we are to realize our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The key premise is that all three are intimately connected.

Cornell University

The judges have rightly refuted this key premise of the "gig economy".

The Guardian - Opinion

She confirms a key premise in the ITV series, that Victoria was overprotected during her childhood at Kensington Palace.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was an unnecessarily negative swipe at the new urban charter movement, and its key premise was unfounded.

The New York Times

A key premise of the Pixar action comedy is that square-jawed space ranger Buzz Lightyear doesn't believe he's a toy.

The Guardian - Film

A key premise of the approach is to seek ways to uncover and document students thinking so it can be discussed, reflected upon, and pushed further.

Harvard University

The success of managed care in controlling costs confirms a key premise of the Clinton plan and other managed competition proposals: substantial savings are feasible.

Princeton University

To undermine the argument, critics need to show that the key premise (the possibility of a zombie) is false or at least unjustified.

The New York Times

ABC executives are now looking into whether the statement about produce, a key premise on which Mr. Stossel built his case, was made without any basis in fact.

The New York Times

A key premise underlying these policies is that fire suppression has resulted in denser forests than were present historically that now have higher fire risk.

Forest Ecology and Management

Our key premise is that the central motive driving the process often described as 'financialization' or financial innovation is the sabotage instinct of finance operating as business.

Business Horizons

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "key premise", clearly articulate the premise to ensure your audience understands the foundation of your argument or analysis. For example, begin by stating: "A "key premise" of this study is..." followed by a clear definition of the premise.

Common error

Avoid stating a "key premise" without providing adequate support or justification. Ensure that the premise is reasonable and backed by sufficient evidence to avoid weakening your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key premise" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a fundamental assumption or foundational idea. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its role is to introduce the basis upon which an argument, theory, or analysis is constructed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

34%

Academia

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "key premise" is a versatile and widely used term to introduce fundamental assumptions or foundational ideas in arguments, analyses, and theories. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. When using "key premise", ensure clarity by explicitly stating and supporting the premise with adequate evidence. Alternatives such as "core assumption", "central tenet", and "foundational principle" can add variety to your writing. Remember that a "key premise" differs from a hypothesis in that it is a starting point rather than a testable proposition. In short, using "key premise" effectively involves clarity, support, and contextual awareness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core assumption

This emphasizes the fundamental nature of the assumption, similar to "key premise".

central tenet

This highlights the importance and centrality of the belief or principle.

foundational principle

This stresses the idea that the principle serves as a base or foundation.

basic presupposition

Focuses on the idea of something being assumed beforehand.

underlying assumption

This emphasizes the hidden or implicit nature of the assumption.

fundamental axiom

Highlights that the premise is considered a self-evident truth.

primary hypothesis

This is used when the premise is being tested or investigated.

chief cornerstone

Emphasizes the importance of the premise as the critical foundation of something.

essential ingredient

This metaphorically refers to the premise as a necessary component.

starting assumption

Indicates that the premise is the initial point of departure.

FAQs

How can I use "key premise" in a sentence?

The phrase "key premise" is typically used to introduce a fundamental assumption or foundational idea upon which an argument or analysis is built. For instance, you might say: "A "key premise" of this theory is that..."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "key premise"?

You can use alternatives such as "core assumption", "central tenet", or "foundational principle" to convey a similar meaning. The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to emphasize.

Is it appropriate to use "key premise" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase "key premise" is suitable for formal writing, including academic papers, reports, and business communications. It clearly and concisely identifies a fundamental assumption or idea. You may also consider using other phrases to add variety to your text, such as "core assumption" or "central tenet".

What is the difference between a "key premise" and a hypothesis?

A "key premise" is a foundational assumption that is taken as a given to support an argument or theory, while a hypothesis is a testable statement that is subject to empirical investigation. The "key premise" provides a starting point, while the hypothesis is a proposition to be proven or disproven.