principal subject

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "principal subject" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the main topic or focus of a discussion, study, or piece of writing. Example: "The principal subject of the research paper is the impact of climate change on marine biodiversity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Without a visible world to orient the story, absence becomes the principal subject of the novel.

The New Yorker

This is not to say that he gives the book's principal subject short shrift.

The New York Times - Books

The recapitulation presents the principal subject matter of the movement in a new state of equilibrium.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The principal subject of the film was a poor, elderly relative of the writer's called Chachaji.

The New Yorker

His principal subject was passion, which he explored in various configurations.

The New York Times

(She is the principal subject of the photos, which come from her private collection).

The New York Times - Arts

The principal subject of sculpture has always been the human figure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(If the principal subject is jealousy, the secondary theme is the power play within a Victorian marriage).

The Guardian - Books

Ferrari's No1 spot is, as ever, the principal subject of the annual rumours about who will drive where next season.

The Guardian - Sport

The principal subject of their investigation is the skeleton of what appears to be a victim of torture.

The New York Times - Books

Ossama Mohammed is a principal subject of Lawrence Wright's remarkable 2006 report about Syrian cinema and its makers.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "principal subject", ensure it clearly identifies the central focus of your discussion or analysis. Avoid ambiguity by providing sufficient context.

Common error

Avoid using "principle subject" when you mean "principal subject". "Principal" refers to the main or most important thing, while "principle" refers to a fundamental truth or proposition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principal subject" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the central focus or topic under discussion, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples from diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "principal subject" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that denotes the main topic or focus of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific literature. Related phrases such as "main subject" and "primary topic" offer similar meanings, though with subtle differences in emphasis. A key point to remember is to avoid confusing "principal" with "principle". Utilizing "principal subject" effectively involves ensuring clarity and providing adequate context to avoid ambiguity, it is important to clearly identify your point of focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main subject

Replaces "principal" with "main", offering a simpler and more direct alternative.

primary topic

Substitutes "subject" with "topic", shifting the emphasis slightly towards the theme of discussion.

central theme

Emphasizes the overarching theme rather than the specific subject matter.

core subject

Highlights the essential and fundamental nature of the subject.

chief topic

Uses "chief" to underscore the importance of the topic.

major focus

Shifts from "subject" to "focus", indicating the area of greatest attention.

key theme

Similar to central theme, highlighting importance of the theme.

central issue

Frames the subject as a central problem or matter of concern.

main concern

Highlights what is of most importance or worry.

primary concern

Replaces "principal" with "primary" and "subject" with "concern".

FAQs

How to use "principal subject" in a sentence?

The phrase "principal subject" refers to the main topic or focus. For example, "The "principal subject" of the meeting was the new marketing strategy".

What can I say instead of "principal subject"?

You can use alternatives like "main subject", "primary topic", or "central theme" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "principal subject" or "principle subject"?

"Principal subject" is correct. "Principal" means main or most important, while "principle" is a fundamental rule or belief. Using "principle subject" is a common error.

What is the difference between "principal subject" and "primary subject"?

While both phrases are similar, ""principal subject"" emphasizes the most important subject, whereas "primary subject" simply denotes the main one. The distinction is subtle but can affect the nuance of your writing.