main idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"main idea" is an appropriate phrase to use in written English.
It is generally used to refer to the most important topic or point in a piece of writing. For example, "The main idea of the essay was that the current system of taxation needs to be reformed."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Intro of main idea: one paragraph.

The New York Times

The main idea is as following.

Advances in Space Research

The main idea of "probabilistic proofs".

Yale University

"What's the main idea?" he asked.

The New York Times - Magazine

That's kind of the main idea.

The New York Times - Sports

The main idea is to go slow.

The New York Times

"Originality isn't the main idea in our movie," Tracadas says.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Make sure that they can grasp the main idea quickly.

Columbia University

The main idea is to construct an equivalent dynamical system.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

The main idea of self – tuning controllers is discussed.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

The main idea is in the manner of supporting turbine.

Renewable Energy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When summarizing a text or presenting an argument, clearly state the "main idea" early on to guide your audience.

Common error

Avoid paragraphs that wander off-topic. Ensure every sentence supports and develops the "main idea" of the paragraph.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "main idea" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Ludwig examples show it being used to identify the central theme, argument, or concept within a text, discussion, or project. The phrase is used to highlight the most important element.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

28%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "main idea" is a very common noun phrase used to identify the central concept or argument. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It appears frequently in scientific, news, academic, and wiki contexts. To use it effectively, clearly state the "main idea" early in your writing and ensure all supporting details remain focused on it. Remember, alternatives like "central theme" or "core concept" can add variety to your writing. Ultimately, grasping and conveying the "main idea" is essential for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

central theme

This phrase highlights the overarching subject or concept, often in literary or artistic contexts.

core concept

This emphasizes the fundamental understanding or principle at the heart of a subject.

key takeaway

This focuses on the most important point or lesson learned from something.

primary focus

This indicates the main subject or area of attention.

gist

This refers to the essential part or essence of something.

essence

This emphasizes the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something.

underlying principle

This highlights the fundamental rule or belief on which something is based.

central argument

This refers to the primary claim or point being made, especially in persuasive writing.

driving force

This emphasizes the factor that motivates or directs something.

crux of the matter

This pinpoints the most important or decisive point at issue.

FAQs

How do I identify the "main idea" in a text?

Look for the sentence that expresses the central point or argument. Often, it's the topic sentence in a paragraph or the thesis statement in an essay. Pay attention to recurring themes and the author's overall purpose.

What can I say instead of "main idea"?

You can use alternatives like "central theme", "core concept", or "key takeaway" depending on the context.

How important is it to clearly state the "main idea" in my writing?

It's crucial. A clearly stated "main idea" provides focus and direction for your writing, ensuring that your audience understands your message and purpose.

What's the difference between the "main idea" and supporting details?

The "main idea" is the central point or argument, while supporting details are the evidence, examples, and explanations that develop and strengthen that central point.