principal argument

USAGE SUMMARY

'principal argument' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to refer to the main point of an argument or discussion. For example: "The principal argument of the article was that the current tax system was too complex."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But Behe's principal argument soon ran into trouble.

The New Yorker

This was Erickson's principal argument during the debate.

The New York Times - Magazine

But the principal argument for haste has more to do with momentum than with the weather.

The Economist

The Court expressly accepts the principal argument of the claimants [95-96].

The Guardian

His principal argument was the "sheer confusion" over the similarity between Australia and New Zealand's flags.

The Guardian

"The principal argument of the defense as far as I can tell is that this information was public," he said.

The New York Times

When you analyze the principal argument made for the impeachment of President Clinton, you are brought inevitably to that question.

The New York Times

Religion is still the principal argument against gay marriage, and religious people are still those most likely to oppose it.

The Guardian - Opinion

The claimant's principal argument was that primary legislation passed by Parliament is necessary in order to invoke Article 50.

Columbia University

The seller's principal argument on this appeal is that the trial court improperly disregarded the parties' valid liquidated damages clause.

Harvard University

KILLICKSouthborough,KentSIR--Mrs Albright overlooks the principal argument of opponents of NATO expansion: that such expansion would jeopardise the arms-control process and even existing arms-control agreements.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a complex issue, clearly state the "principal argument" upfront to guide your audience and maintain focus.

Common error

Avoid confusing "principal argument" (the main point) with "principle" (a fundamental belief). For example, it's incorrect to say "The principle argument was based on ethics."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principal argument" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the most important point being made in a discussion, debate, or written work. Ludwig examples confirm its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Academia

24%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "principal argument" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for denoting the main point in a discussion, debate, or piece of writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans diverse fields like news, academia, and science. While synonyms like "main argument" or "core argument" offer similar meanings, understanding the nuances of each can enhance precision in writing. To use the phrase effectively, ensure you clearly identify the central claim you wish to emphasize and avoid confusion with terms like "principle". By adhering to these guidelines, you can confidently employ "principal argument" to strengthen your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main argument

Replaces "principal" with "main", a direct synonym, maintaining the meaning.

key argument

Substitutes "principal" with "key", emphasizing the importance of the argument.

core argument

Replaces "principal" with "core", highlighting the argument's fundamental nature.

central argument

Uses "central" instead of "principal", focusing on the argument's position as the focal point.

primary argument

Substitutes "principal" with "primary", indicating the argument's foremost importance.

chief argument

Replaces "principal" with "chief", suggesting the argument is the most important.

major argument

Uses "major" instead of "principal", highlighting the argument's significance.

main contention

Replaces both "principal" and "argument" with synonyms, slightly altering the tone.

primary contention

Substitutes "principal argument" with a similar concept that implies a key point.

underlying premise

Shifts the focus to the foundational assumption upon which an argument is built.

FAQs

How can I use "principal argument" in a sentence?

You can use "principal argument" to introduce the most important point in a discussion or debate. For example, "The speaker's "principal argument" was that climate change poses an immediate threat."

What's a good synonym for "principal argument"?

Alternatives to "principal argument" include "main argument", "key argument", or "core argument". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between a "principal argument" and a supporting argument?

The "principal argument" is the primary claim or thesis. Supporting arguments are the reasons and evidence used to bolster or justify the "principal argument".

Is it always necessary to have a "principal argument" in an essay?

In most academic essays, having a clearly defined "principal argument" or thesis statement is essential for providing focus and direction. However, narrative or descriptive essays may not require a central argument.