pivotal assertion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pivotal assertion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a statement or claim that is crucial or central to an argument or discussion. Example: "The author's pivotal assertion about the impact of climate change on biodiversity is supported by extensive research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's a somewhat flimsy, if pivotal, assertion and it conflicts with his idea that white people should adopt and adapt James Brown's "Say It Loud – I'm Black and I'm Proud".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Until the mining boom, its claim to fame was a late-1940s three-year strike by nearby ranch workers that became a pivotal moment in the assertion of Aboriginal rights in Australia.

The New York Times

But in the end, the pivotal issue might have been Mr. Fischetti's assertion that all he needed to do was persuade one juror that there was a reasonable doubt.

The New York Times

After a string of electoral reverses, Mr Schröder has become at best lukewarm, and mostly just silent, about his former admiration for what parts of the German left nowadays caricature as Mr Blair's extreme pro-market policies.At least Mr Blair does not base his assertion that Britain has become a "pivotal" world power entirely on his claim that it is "a leader in ideas".

The Economist

Sutton's attempt to carve out a pivotal role for McPherson in the amorphous seethe of twentieth-century Christianity in America itself seems mostly a matter of assertion, rather than a demonstrable thesis.

The New Yorker

Evidence for this assertion is provided in this systematic review of the pharmacologic properties of this novel agent and the published pivotal studies which support the efficacy of this agent in targeted populations.

Core Evidence

But pivotal uncertainties remain.

The New York Times

"They're pivotal pieces.

The New York Times - Arts

United won 13 of their final 15 matches and, to support Alan Hansen's assertion that you win nothing with kids, it was Ferguson's imperial guard – Pallister, Bruce, Cantona and Schmeichel – who were pivotal.

Independent

It is a pivotal opportunity.

The New York Times

Previously: "A Pivotal Italian Aria".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pivotal assertion" when you want to emphasize that a particular statement is crucial to understanding or supporting a larger argument or situation. It suggests that the statement is a turning point or a key element upon which other aspects depend.

Common error

Avoid using "pivotal assertion" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "key point" or "important claim" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pivotal assertion" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "pivotal" modifies the noun "assertion". It identifies a statement or claim that is of critical importance or significance. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "pivotal assertion" refers to a statement or claim of critical importance. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability in English. While grammatically sound and appropriate for formal contexts such as news, science, and business, it should be used judiciously in less formal settings. Alternatives like "key argument" or "central claim" can provide similar emphasis. When writing, consider the context to ensure the phrase's formality aligns with the overall tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

critical claim

Replaces "pivotal" with "critical", suggesting a make-or-break importance.

key argument

Substitutes "assertion" with "argument", framing it as a point in a debate.

central claim

Uses "central" instead of "pivotal", indicating the statement is a core element.

essential argument

Replaces both words to emphasize the necessity of the argument.

decisive statement

Changes "pivotal" to "decisive", highlighting the statement's impact on a decision.

fundamental claim

Uses "fundamental" to suggest the claim is a foundational element.

significant statement

Replaces "pivotal" with "significant", emphasizing the importance of the statement.

crucial declaration

Changes both words to convey urgency and importance.

vital point

Replaces both words for a less formal tone while still emphasizing importance.

cornerstone of the argument

This alternative is a more descriptive phrase, suggesting the statement is the foundation of the argument.

FAQs

How can I use "pivotal assertion" in a sentence?

You can use "pivotal assertion" to highlight a statement that is critical to an argument or situation. For example: "The author's "pivotal assertion" about the impact of climate change is supported by extensive research."

What are some alternatives to "pivotal assertion"?

You can use alternatives such as "critical claim", "key argument", or "central claim" depending on the context.

Is "pivotal assertion" formal or informal?

"Pivotal assertion" leans towards the formal side. In informal contexts, consider using simpler phrases like "key point" or "important claim".

What makes an assertion "pivotal"?

An assertion is considered "pivotal" when it is a crucial turning point, or when other elements of an argument depend on it. It's a key element that significantly impacts the overall outcome or understanding.