mainstream narrative

USAGE SUMMARY

"mainstream narrative" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a perspective, opinion, or story which is widely accepted or popularized. For example, "Many people accept the mainstream narrative that studying hard will help them achieve success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Is this the future of mainstream narrative games?

The Guardian - Tech

That scene suggests Mr. Almereyda has a conflicted relationship with mainstream narrative; in both "Hamlet" and films like "Nadja," that conflict greatly works to the director's dreamy advantage.

The New York Times

In the mainstream narrative of international development peddled by institutions from the World Bank to the UK's Department of International Development, the history of colonialism is routinely erased.

The Guardian

There is a dire need to challenge the current mainstream narrative – a worldview based on 20th century geopolitical distortions wholly unsuited to the 21st century.

The Guardian - Opinion

Instead of stories for girls, or the sons of feminists, stories like these need to be part of a mainstream narrative, not a special, separate, subgroup.

The Guardian - Opinion

It provided rebels with more fuel, galvanised an increasingly sophisticated anti-fascist opposition and created a mainstream narrative that was dismissive of the BNP's prospects.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Following mainstream narratives, we hypothesized that phone use during an illness (a) increases and (b) accelerates healthcare access.

World Development

Understanding of children's development of mainstream narratives can be useful in planning educational strategies to facilitate students' literacy success.

Linguistics and Education

One reader, responding to something I recently wrote about Sundance, insisted both are corporate products — but really, these are mainstream narratives.

The New York Times

The modern pop zine's most popular subjects reflect the names that dominate mainstream media but they also reject mainstream narratives.

The Guardian

Seeing positive stories helps bring awareness to our community as we continue to advocate for inclusion and help to change mainstream narratives to include our stories.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "dominant viewpoint" or "prevailing discourse" to add variety to your writing while maintaining clarity.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something challenges the "mainstream narrative" without specifying what that narrative is or why it is being challenged. Provide concrete examples and evidence to support your claims.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mainstream narrative" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a prevalent or widely accepted viewpoint. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples illustrating its use in describing dominant perspectives and challenging existing norms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mainstream narrative" is a commonly used term that describes a widely accepted or dominant viewpoint. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While the phrase is generally neutral, it's often used to introduce alternative perspectives or challenge existing assumptions. When using "mainstream narrative", it's important to provide context and be specific about the narrative you are discussing. Consider using synonyms such as ""dominant viewpoint"" or "prevailing discourse" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dominant viewpoint

Focuses on the prevalence and influence of the perspective.

prevailing discourse

Highlights the current discussion or conversation that is most common.

conventional wisdom

Emphasizes the acceptance of the idea as a standard belief.

accepted ideology

Indicates a system of beliefs that is generally agreed upon.

common understanding

Stresses shared knowledge or interpretation.

popular belief

Highlights the widespread acceptance among people.

established perspective

Focuses on the long-standing and recognized nature of the view.

ruling interpretation

Highlights the power and authority behind the interpretation.

standard account

Refers to a typical or default explanation of events.

orthodox view

Emphasizes adherence to established or traditional beliefs.

FAQs

How to use "mainstream narrative" in a sentence?

You can use "mainstream narrative" to describe a dominant or widely accepted story. For example, "The documentary challenges the "dominant viewpoint" about the war."

What's the difference between "mainstream narrative" and "conventional wisdom"?

"Mainstream narrative" refers to a widely accepted story or perspective, while "conventional wisdom" implies a belief or understanding that is generally accepted as true, even if it might not be accurate. The "accepted ideology" may form the mainstream narrative.

What can I say instead of "mainstream narrative"?

You can use alternatives like ""dominant viewpoint"", "prevailing discourse", or "common understanding" depending on the specific context.

Is it always negative to challenge the "mainstream narrative"?

Not necessarily. Challenging the "mainstream narrative" can lead to new perspectives and a more nuanced understanding of complex issues. It becomes a matter of promoting a new "ruling interpretation".