red thread

USAGE SUMMARY

"red thread" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase can be used to refer to a common theme, topic, or idea that ties together multiple conversations or stories. For example: "Throughout my interviews, there is a red thread that links all of my subjects - their commitment to their work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The lovers are stitched back together with "love's red thread".

The New Yorker

The first word she embroidered "Booyah," in bright red thread.

The New Yorker

There are no crosses, although "Resurrection" is spelled in red thread strung between nails.

The New York Times

Guests wore white scarves embroidered with "K&K" in red thread.

The Times

Photographs depicting the artist's meticulous work are paired with framed patches of the discarded red thread.

Stanford University

Still, as their lives unspool in different directions, their invisible red thread will begin to stretch.

The New York Times

The original arched windows are appropriately Calvinist in spirit, bearing just a modest red thread of stained glass.

Independent

He says some Christians wear zizit with red thread rather than blue to symbolize the blood of Christ.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I want to see the red thread!" he would scream in English or German if a propaganda script lacked organization.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Kim Lieberman stitches sheets of postage stamps with blood-red thread.

The New York Times - Arts

Pushing a needle with blood-red thread through scars in his own flesh, he sewed the thread through the clothing of the three people in the audience seated nearest him.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "red thread" to clearly articulate a unifying theme or consistent element within a complex narrative or analysis to enhance reader comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using "red thread" when referring to minor details or loosely related ideas; ensure it represents a significant and consistently present theme.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "red thread" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used metaphorically. According to Ludwig, it describes a unifying or recurring element that connects different aspects of a narrative, argument, or situation, similar to the examples shown.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "red thread" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a unifying theme or recurring element that connects different aspects of a narrative or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from various contexts, including news, academic, and scientific sources. It serves to bring clarity and coherence, highlighting connections that might not be immediately obvious. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure that "red thread" represents a significant and consistently present theme, not just minor details. Alternatives like "/s/common+thread" or "/s/underlying+theme" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

common thread

Replaces "red" with a more generic term for a connecting element.

connecting link

Shifts the metaphor from a thread to a link, emphasizing connection.

underlying theme

Replaces the physical metaphor with a direct reference to a thematic element.

central theme

Highlights the primary and recurring nature of the theme.

recurring motif

Emphasizes the repetitive nature of the connecting element, often in artistic contexts.

golden thread

Changes the color while keeping the thread metaphor, implying value or importance.

key element

Substitutes the metaphorical thread with a more literal descriptor.

guiding principle

Highlights how a principle can serve as a consistent guide or theme.

consistent element

Focuses on the unchanging nature of the connecting idea.

unifying factor

Emphasizes the role of bringing different elements together.

FAQs

How can I use "red thread" in a sentence?

You can use "red thread" to describe a common theme or idea that connects different parts of a story, argument, or analysis. For example, "The /s/central+theme of the novel is the enduring power of love."

What does "red thread" mean?

The phrase "red thread" typically refers to a recurring theme or idea that connects various elements together, providing coherence and unity.

What can I say instead of "red thread"?

You can use alternatives like "/s/common+thread", "/s/connecting+link", or "/s/underlying+theme" depending on the context.

Is "red thread" an idiom?

"Red thread" functions as a metaphor or common expression to describe a unifying theme, closely resembling an idiom but not strictly classified as one.