primary idea

USAGE SUMMARY

"primary idea" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the main point or concept of something. For example, "The primary idea behind the speech was that everyone should work together to create a better future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

The primary idea is 'obsessively intent on one idea.' It buzzes on one note.

The New York Times - Magazine

The primary idea of "Taken" is one of such familiarity that there is little new, even in the eventual explanation of what the aliens are up to.

The New York Times - Arts

The league office cannot order teams how to operate, but it is making suggestions with the primary idea to reduce cash costs.

The New York Times - Sports

It stems from a basic conceptual void in which the primary idea was to destroy a government and in which all other considerations -- if there were any -- were set aside.

The New York Times

Mr. Long responded caustically to Mr. Teitelbaum's primary idea, noting that under state law, Mr. Giuliani could not get on the primary ballot without persuading a majority of the party's 51-member Executive Committee to give him a waiver that permits someone who is not a party member to participate in a Conservative primary.

The New York Times

For example, pencils and paper are still the primary idea development tool.

Procedia Manufacturing

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

And as these stories unfold, one becomes familiar with the primary ideas and events in the rise of modern evolutionary thinking.

The New York Times - Books

The Fairsted lot isn't much bigger -- an acre and three-quarters -- but there was enough space to show off his primary ideas.

The New York Times - Travel

Meanwhile, on his first day away from CNN, Mr. Dobbs fielded calls on the radio from adoring listeners who had two primary ideas for his next job: a position at Fox News or a political office.

The New York Times

For more on primary ideas see the next section of this entry.

SEP

The analogy will hold for what were earlier called primary ideas.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "primary idea" to introduce the most important or fundamental concept in a discussion or written piece.

Common error

Avoid overshadowing the "primary idea" with excessive details or secondary points. Ensure that your main message remains the focal point throughout your communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary idea" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the main or most important concept being discussed. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "primary idea" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote the main concept or core theme in various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correctly employed across formal and informal settings, particularly in scientific, news, and media publications. While "primary idea" is a clear and direct way to introduce the central point, related phrases like "main concept", "central theme", and "core principle" can offer nuanced alternatives. Remember to keep the "primary idea" central to your communication to maintain clarity and focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main concept

Focuses on the core concept without necessarily implying it's the initial idea.

central theme

Highlights the recurring subject or topic, especially in artistic or literary works.

core principle

Emphasizes the fundamental belief or doctrine that something is based on.

key concept

Highlights the importance of the concept.

underlying notion

Stresses the implicit or less obvious idea that forms the basis of something.

chief aim

Highlights the main goal or objective, shifting focus from the idea itself to its intended outcome.

principal thought

Emphasizes the leading or dominant thought.

basic premise

Highlights the foundational statement or assumption upon which an argument or theory is built.

initial concept

Focuses specifically on the idea as it was first conceived.

driving force

Emphasizes the impetus behind something, the factor that compels action or progress.

FAQs

How can I use "primary idea" in a sentence?

You can use "primary idea" to introduce the main concept or point of something. For example, "The "primary idea" of the study was to determine the effectiveness of the new drug".

What are some alternatives to "primary idea"?

Some alternatives to "primary idea" include "main concept", "central theme", or "core principle" depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "primary idea" and "basic idea"?

"Primary idea" emphasizes the most important or fundamental concept, while "basic idea" refers to a simple or foundational concept. The "primary idea" is usually the main takeaway, while the "basic idea" could be a starting point.

Is it appropriate to use "primary idea" in formal writing?

Yes, "primary idea" is appropriate for formal writing. It's a clear and concise way to refer to the main concept. However, consider alternatives like "key concept" or "core principle" for added sophistication.