primary argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "primary argument" is a valid phrase that can be used in written English.
It refers to the main or most important argument in a sentence or paragraph. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as in persuasive essays, debates, or legal arguments. Example: In his speech, the politician's primary argument was that the government should invest more in education to improve the country's future prospects.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Their primary argument on appeal in 1979 was that the procedure was unconstitutional.

The New York Times

Their primary argument relates to the proof required to convict a "tippee" of insider trading.

The New York Times

But, echoing the defense's primary argument throughout the trial, Mr. Hayden called his death an accident, not a crime.

The New York Times

Mr. Phillips's primary argument, however, might be that a tax so narrowly focused would penalize a specific group.

The New York Times

The primary argument is that these would provide a more efficient means of eradicating severe hardship, suffering, or starvation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The primary argument before Justice Michelle Gordon to decide who wins is whether or not the banks' fees can be called penalties.

The Guardian - Money

Justice Borden also questioned Mr. Leydon's primary argument that the residents-only policy violated his First Amendment rights by denying him access to a public forum.

The New York Times

One primary argument against replay, McKay said, was that officials might start second-guessing themselves before making calls because mistakes would be immediately exposed.

The New York Times - Sports

"The government's primary argument for extending the ability to collect communications data is that somehow there is a shortfall," he said.

The Guardian

The primary argument made in the presentation was not robust, it was self-serving, and it was not backed by evidence.

The Guardian

The administration's primary argument is that the law is authorized by the commerce clause, which gives Congress the power to regulate commerce "among the several states".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a complex argument, clearly identify your "primary argument" at the outset to guide your audience.

Common error

Avoid diluting the impact of your "primary argument" by giving equal weight to less important supporting details. Keep your main point central.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary argument" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object within a sentence. It identifies the most important claim or point being made in a discussion, debate, or text. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which illustrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Opinion

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "primary argument" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies the most important claim or point in a discussion or text. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. Analysis reveals a neutral register, making it appropriate for both formal and informal settings. To effectively use "primary argument", clearly identify it early in your presentation and avoid diluting its impact with less important details. Related phrases include "main contention" and "central claim", offering alternative ways to express the same idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main contention

Emphasizes the main point of disagreement or dispute.

key assertion

Focuses on the most important statement or claim being made.

central claim

Highlights the core argument or proposition.

chief point

Indicates the most significant point being presented.

principal reasoning

Focuses on the primary logic or rationale behind an argument.

major premise

Highlights the main assumption or foundation of an argument.

core thesis

Emphasizes the central argument or proposition being defended.

fundamental basis

Indicates the underlying foundation or reason for an argument.

essential rationale

Focuses on the crucial justification or explanation.

overriding consideration

Highlights the most important factor or concern in a decision or argument.

FAQs

How can I effectively identify the "primary argument" in a text?

Look for the central claim or thesis that the author is trying to support. It's often stated explicitly or implied through the accumulation of evidence.

What can I say instead of "primary argument"?

You can use alternatives like "main contention", "key assertion", or "central claim" depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between a "primary argument" and a secondary argument?

The "primary argument" is the main point, while secondary arguments are supporting points used to bolster the main argument. The primary argument is more important than the seconday arguments.

How do you structure an essay around a "primary argument"?

Begin with a clear statement of your "primary argument" in the introduction, then develop supporting arguments in the body paragraphs, and reiterate the primary argument in the conclusion.