overarching concept

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "overarching concept" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a broad or all-encompassing idea or theme that serves as the central focus of a particular topic or discussion. Example: The overarching concept of social justice is woven throughout the novel, as the author explores the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Or would a radical director dream up a novel, overarching concept for the sprawling dramas?

The New York Times - Arts

Despite its ironic, overarching concept of the artist as an eccentric, narcissistic collector and curator of her own history, the show is confusingly fragmentary.

The New York Times - Arts

The tablet itself is solid enough — good specs, decent looks, etc. — but overarching concept of the Note line feels so much more appropriate on a screen this size.

TechCrunch

In American literature the issue of social class is oftentimes intertwined with race/ethnicity under the overarching concept of 'minority' condition.

Comparative Migration Studies

This is the overarching "concept" presented in the Arcade Fire's outstanding third album, The Suburbs.

Huffington Post

All of the different forms coalesce through subtle layering and the interplay between isolated idea and overarching concept.

Huffington Post

The use of natural entities to describe the interactive components isn't just to be cute but is part of an overarching concept outlined by creator Miles Peyton to create an experience that rests "somewhere between an ecosystem and a musical instrument".

Vice

But this experience encapsulated what I always imagined was the overarching concept of Vince, in a nutshell: "Hey!

The New York Times

Somewhat unusually, the works have been selected for their individual qualities rather than to illustrate any overarching concept or idea.

The New York Times

The overarching concept was the "anti-Oprah show," with a heavy emphasis on midgets, explosions and beer.

The New York Times - Magazine

For his overarching concept, he has turned to the oldest trick in the book: the theater within the theater.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "overarching concept" to clearly define the central theme or idea of your writing, ensuring all elements align with this core concept.

Common error

Avoid using "overarching concept" as a filler phrase. Ensure it genuinely represents a significant, unifying idea that is well-defined and relevant to the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overarching concept" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI's examples show it defining the central theme or unifying principle in various contexts, such as in art, science, and business.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "overarching concept" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that signifies a primary, all-encompassing idea. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the main theme and provides a clear framework for your content. Alternatives like "central theme" or "key idea" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Avoid vague usage to maintain clarity and relevance in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

central theme

Focuses on the main subject or idea that runs through something.

key idea

Highlights the most important thought or notion.

primary notion

Emphasizes the fundamental or principal concept.

main premise

Stresses the foundational statement or assumption.

general principle

Indicates a broad and fundamental rule or belief.

unifying idea

Suggests a concept that brings different elements together.

core principle

Highlights the essential or most important rule.

dominant theme

Emphasizes the most prominent subject or idea.

integrating concept

Suggests a concept that combines various aspects into a cohesive whole.

underlying principle

Refers to the fundamental rule or belief upon which something is based.

FAQs

How to use "overarching concept" in a sentence?

You can use "overarching concept" to describe the main idea that ties together different aspects of a project, theory, or discussion. For example, "The overarching concept of the study is to explore the impact of climate change on biodiversity."

What can I say instead of "overarching concept"?

You can use alternatives like "central theme", "key idea", or "main premise" depending on the context.

Is "overarching concept" formal or informal?

"Overarching concept" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts. Its appropriateness largely depends on the overall tone and register of the writing.

What is the difference between "overarching concept" and "general idea"?

"Overarching concept" refers to a more comprehensive and unifying idea that encompasses various elements, while "general idea" is a broader and less specific notion. The "overarching concept" serves as a framework, whereas a general idea can be a simple summary or understanding.