main argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "main argument" is commonly used in written English.
It is used to refer to the central or most important point being made in a sentence or paragraph. Example: The main argument of the essay is that climate change is a pressing issue that requires immediate action from governments and individuals alike.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Fallows's main argument, though, was psychological.

The New York Times

"The main argument is that Scotland would lose its identity.

Independent

That is the main argument of Mr Enríquez-Ominami.

The Economist

The main argument is that the public's errors cancel out.

The Economist

His main argument is "We both know who you are".

The New Yorker

This is the main argument for an expansion.

The New Yorker

Ultimately, though, his main argument is with haste.

The New York Times

The main argument in the administration's appeal, United States v.

The New York Times

My main argument is: mend it, don't end it".

The Guardian

But the main argument now will be over the treaty's provisions on advertising.

The Economist

The main argument was over what to do with the federal government's huge budget surplus.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When constructing an argument, clearly state your "main argument" early in your piece to provide a roadmap for your readers. This ensures clarity and helps maintain focus throughout your discussion.

Common error

Avoid presenting your "main argument" as the only possible interpretation or as an insignificant detail. Strive for a balanced presentation that acknowledges other perspectives while highlighting the strength of your central claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "main argument" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the central claim or point being presented in a discussion, debate, or piece of writing. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "main argument" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression to identify the central point of a discussion or piece of writing. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely used across diverse contexts, including news, scientific literature, and general discussions. When using the phrase, it is crucial to ensure your "main argument" is clearly and concisely stated, providing a focal point for your audience. Consider alternative phrases like "central thesis" or "key contention" to add variety to your writing, and avoid overstating or understating its significance to maintain a balanced perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

central thesis

Emphasizes the core proposition being defended, shifting from the argumentative aspect to the thesis itself.

key contention

Highlights the disputed nature of the argument, focusing on a point that is actively being asserted or debated.

core reasoning

Focuses on the logical basis and thought process behind the argument, rather than the argument as a whole.

primary claim

Underscores the assertiveness of the argument, presenting it as a statement of fact or belief.

chief rationale

Concentrates on the justification behind a position, emphasizing the reasons why something is believed or done.

principal assertion

Highlights the act of stating something as true, often in a formal or emphatic manner.

major premise

Draws attention to the foundational assumption on which the argument is built, especially in logical or philosophical contexts.

driving force

Shifts from the argumentative aspect to the underlying motivation or cause that leads to a particular conclusion or action.

underlying principle

Focuses on the fundamental idea or rule that guides the argument, providing a basis for understanding and acceptance.

crucial point

Emphasizes the importance and significance of a particular element within the broader discussion or narrative.

FAQs

How can I effectively introduce my "main argument" in an essay?

Start with a clear and concise thesis statement that encapsulates your "main argument". Provide context or background information to set the stage, and then explicitly state your central claim to guide the reader.

What's the difference between a "main argument" and a supporting argument?

The "main argument" is the overarching claim you're making, while supporting arguments are the individual points and evidence you use to bolster and validate that central claim. Think of supporting arguments as building blocks that reinforce your "main argument".

What are some synonyms for "main argument"?

You can use alternatives like "central thesis", "key contention", or "primary claim" depending on the context.

Why is it important to have a well-defined "main argument" in academic writing?

A clear "main argument" provides focus and direction for your writing, ensuring that all your points contribute to a coherent and persuasive case. It also helps your reader understand your purpose and follow your line of reasoning more effectively.