overriding point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overriding point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the most important or dominant aspect of a discussion or argument. Example: "The overriding point of our meeting was the need for improved communication within the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

And that was, all his life, Kennan's great, overriding point.

The New Yorker

The key is that the overriding point of the relationship is the relationship itself.

The Guardian - Books

—"Reluctant Librarian" "Books represent the overriding point of conflict in my marriage".

The New York Times

But Mr. Dukakis, he said, while performing well did not seem to make any overriding point in the debate.

The New York Times

If "Bonk" has an overriding point, it is that trivia about scientific sex research can be truly grisly, especially in its geniality.

The New York Times - Books

In its response to the decision, the White House refused to confirm any purported locations of black sites, insisting that the "overriding point" was that the program no longer existed.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Mr. Spitzer tried to engage Ms. Parker at times, usually to override a point, but mostly they spoke on congenial but unconnected tracks.

The New York Times

Luncheon lasted 1 hr 15 min. General tenor of conversation such that Gen Harkins presented views and/or overrode key points I tried to present.

The New Yorker

Books like this one, in which experts in highly specialized fields are each invited to write a chapter, will by their very nature lack an overriding point-of-view, but at the very least, the book should have had a strong introduction to put the content in context.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Once you get your focus set, turn off the Live View while keeping your lens on manual focus so that the camera does not override your focal point, and you should be good to go! 1) Consider shooting tethered to your computer or TV screen.

HuffPost

I'd like to point out that overriding the thoughts and personality of a living person is an incredibly heinous thing to do.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, ensure the "overriding point" is explicitly stated and well-supported by evidence or reasoning within your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "overriding point" to describe trivial or secondary issues. This diminishes its impact and can confuse readers about the actual significance of your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overriding point" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. Ludwig examples show it emphasizes the most crucial or dominant idea in a discussion, argument, or situation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "overriding point" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that serves to emphasize the most critical aspect of a topic. According to Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various writing contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific domains. While several alternatives exist, such as ""main point"" or "key point", "overriding point" specifically underscores the idea's dominance or precedence over other considerations. Remember to reserve this phrase for genuinely significant issues to maintain its impact and avoid diluting its meaning. By following these guidelines, you can use "overriding point" effectively to add clarity and emphasis to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main point

Focuses on the centrality of the idea, omitting the sense of dominance.

key point

Emphasizes the significance of the idea, rather than its controlling influence.

primary focus

Highlights the central area of attention, differing from a point or argument.

central theme

Refers to a recurring idea or subject, which can encompass more than a specific point.

underlying principle

Highlights a fundamental idea that supports a system or belief, not necessarily an explicit point.

crucial aspect

Focuses on importance but can be one of many aspects, diluting the singularity of a "point".

essential element

Highlights something indispensable, differing in connotation from a point.

most important consideration

Emphasizes the weight of a factor when making a decision.

chief concern

Highlights the biggest worry or issue, not strictly a point.

takeaway

Highlights the key lesson or information learned, rather than the most important argument.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "overriding point" in a sentence?

Start by clearly stating your argument, then use "overriding point" to highlight the most crucial aspect that supports your claim. For example: "While various factors contribute, the "main point" is the need for better communication."

What are some alternatives to using "overriding point" in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "key point", "central theme", or "primary focus" to convey a similar meaning. Choose the one that best fits the tone and emphasis you want to achieve.

Is it appropriate to use "overriding point" in formal writing?

Yes, "overriding point" is suitable for formal writing as it clearly and directly indicates the most significant aspect of an argument or discussion. Ensure that its use aligns with the overall tone and complexity of your content.

How does "overriding point" differ from "important point"?

"Overriding point" suggests that the point is not only important but also takes precedence over other considerations. "Important point", on the other hand, simply highlights that the point is significant without necessarily implying dominance.