primary theme

USAGE SUMMARY

"primary theme" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to the main or most important idea or topic in a sentence or paragraph. Example: In his novel, the author explores the primary theme of love through the different relationships between the characters.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Gun control has become a primary theme.

The New York Times

Aboard the Mississippi, this is the primary theme.

The New Yorker

Social privilege and the lack of it is a primary theme.

The New York Times - Arts

Its primary theme seems to be the ephemeral nature of news.

The New Yorker

But if the novel lacks some of the blazing originality of her children's writing, Rosoff's primary theme hasn't changed.

The Guardian - Books

This is a primary theme of "RUMI AND THE SUFI TRADITION" at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The New York Times - Arts

Life Is Easy offers more bittersweet iterations of his primary theme, which couples spun-sugar melodies with passive-aggressive guiltmongering.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

One of this weekend's primary themes will be passion.

The New York Times

The Sopranos also covered some of the primary themes of the Great American Novel.

The Guardian - Books

Language and metaphor — and how they're played out in Jewish life — are the storyteller Nathan Englander's primary themes.

The New Yorker

I attended a pep rally for Notre Dame fans the other night and there were two primary themes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing literature or film, clearly identify the "primary theme" early in your analysis to provide a focused argument.

Common error

Avoid mistaking secondary themes for the "primary theme". Ensure your interpretation is supported by the most prominent evidence in the text.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary theme" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies the most important idea or subject in a discourse. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

21%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "primary theme" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression referring to the central or most important idea within a text or discourse. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and practical phrase, evidenced by its common occurrence in diverse sources such as news outlets, scientific publications, and general knowledge resources like Wikipedia. When writing, remember to accurately identify the overarching message to avoid mistaking secondary ideas for the "primary theme". Alternatives include "central idea" or "overarching theme".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overarching theme

Highlights a theme that is comprehensive or all-encompassing.

central idea

Emphasizes the core concept being presented.

key concept

Highlights the most important idea or notion.

principal topic

Highlights the leading subject under discussion.

main subject

Focuses on the topic rather than its significance.

fundamental subject

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the topic.

core message

Focuses on the central communication or point.

major focus

Stresses the main area of attention or concentration.

dominant motif

Emphasizes a recurring element or idea.

chief aspect

Focuses on the most important element or feature.

FAQs

How can I identify the "primary theme" of a text?

Look for recurring ideas, central conflicts, and the author's overall message. The "primary theme" is often the most pervasive and impactful element.

What's the difference between a "primary theme" and a motif?

A "primary theme" is the central idea or message, while a motif is a recurring element that supports or reinforces the theme. Motifs are often symbolic and contribute to the overall meaning.

Which phrases can replace "primary theme" in my writing?

You can use alternatives like "central idea", "overarching theme", or "key concept" to diversify your vocabulary.

Is it accurate to say a work has multiple "primary themes"?

While a work can explore various themes, it typically has one overarching or "primary theme" that dominates. Other themes are usually secondary and support the main idea.