principal arguments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "principal arguments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the main points or reasons in a debate, essay, or any form of argumentation. Example: "In her essay, she outlined the principal arguments for and against the proposed policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

This entry will attempt to provide a broad overview of the central themes of Leibniz's philosophy of physics, as well as an introduction to some of the principal arguments and argumentative strategies he used to defend his positions.

SEP

These little infelicities shrink to nothing beside the incontrovertibility and importance of Franzen's principal arguments.

The New Yorker

Here are some of the principal arguments made by the two sides.

The New York Times - Science

An Article of Faith In extending unemployment benefits over Republican opposition last month, Democrats offered two principal arguments.

The New York Times

Our poll also indicated that some of the principal arguments against remedial efforts have been failing to take hold.

The New York Times

As far as I can tell, there are two principal arguments being made for letting the banks off easy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 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

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "principal arguments", clearly delineate each argument to avoid confusion. Using numbered lists or bullet points can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid presenting overlapping points as distinct "principal arguments". Each argument should offer a unique perspective or evidence to support your overall claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principal arguments" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI shows the phrase in various contexts, often referring to the main points in a debate or discussion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "principal arguments" is a grammatically sound and common noun phrase used to denote the core reasons or justifications in a discussion or debate. According to Ludwig AI, it is typically employed in neutral to formal contexts such as news media, scientific discourse, and encyclopedic entries. While the phrase is generally interchangeable with alternatives like "major arguments" or "key rationales", it is important to ensure that each argument is distinct and clearly presented to avoid redundancy or confusion. Effective use involves clearly delineating each point with supporting evidence, contributing to a well-structured and persuasive presentation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main contentions

Replaces "arguments" with a more formal synonym, "contentions".

key rationales

Substitutes "principal" with "key" and "arguments" with "rationales", focusing on the reasoning behind a position.

primary justifications

Emphasizes the act of justifying a stance, using "justifications" instead of "arguments".

central claims

Focuses on the assertions being made, replacing "arguments" with "claims".

core tenets

Highlights the fundamental beliefs or principles, making it suitable for philosophical or ideological contexts.

chief reasons

Simplifies the phrase while maintaining the focus on the most important reasons.

major points

Offers a broader term, suitable when not strictly referring to argumentative points.

significant debates

Shifts the focus to the discussion itself, rather than the individual arguments.

fundamental disagreements

Highlights the points of conflict or opposition.

underlying premises

Focuses on the foundational assumptions that support a line of reasoning.

FAQs

How can I effectively present the "principal arguments" in an essay?

Start with a clear thesis statement, then dedicate a paragraph or section to each "principal argument", providing evidence and analysis to support each one. Conclude by summarizing how these arguments collectively support your thesis.

What are some phrases I can use instead of "principal arguments"?

You can use alternatives like "main contentions", "key rationales", or "central claims" depending on the context.

Are "principal arguments" and "major arguments" interchangeable?

Yes, "principal arguments" and "major arguments" are largely interchangeable. "Principal" emphasizes the primary or most important nature of the arguments.

How do I identify the "principal arguments" in a text?

Look for the most frequently emphasized points, the points with the most supporting evidence, and the points that are essential to the overall message of the text.