secondary point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "secondary point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a point that is not the main focus but still holds some importance in a discussion or argument. Example: "While the primary argument is compelling, the secondary point about environmental impact should not be overlooked."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

There's a secondary point here.

The Guardian

"The secondary point would have just been a bonus.

The New York Times - Sports

His secondary point is that you neglect intellectuals at your peril, however crazy they sound.

The Economist

"With previous first ladies, one of the things that happened is that they fell into a uniform and it was always a secondary point of view," she said.

The New York Times

That's why groups of manufacturers sign up voluntarily to schemes like Red Tractor or RSPCA Freedom Food, which push a national message only as a secondary point, whether quality or animal welfare.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

His immersion in the field enables him not only to make his primary point at length but also to make a critical secondary point: that even when domestic breeders aren't trying to vary their cattle, the cattle vary anyway, through isolation and inbreeding.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

The secondary points were percentage with new onset dyskinesia and worsening of pre-existing dyskinesia.

Core Evidence

These secondary points were used as the locations of synthetic active regions or synthetic patches.

Cerebral Cortex

Your compass rose should look something like this: Lightly draw the secondary points.

WikiHow

Consider the main points you want to make, and the secondary points you will use to support those points.

WikiHow

The secondary end point was becoming pain-free.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "secondary point" to introduce elements that, while relevant, are not central to your main argument or discussion. This helps maintain focus and clarity.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "secondary point" as if it's the primary focus. Clearly distinguish between your main argument and supporting details to prevent reader confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "secondary point" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It refers to a supporting idea or argument that is not the main focus of a discussion. Ludwig's examples show its usage in various contexts, including academic, news, and business settings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "secondary point" is a versatile noun phrase used to introduce supplementary information or arguments that are less central than the main focus. As noted by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and appears across diverse contexts, from scientific journals to news articles. While not as crucial as the primary idea, a "secondary point" adds depth and context to the overall discussion. When incorporating it into your writing, ensure clear distinction from the main argument to avoid confusion. Alternatives such as "minor detail" or "supporting argument" can be considered based on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

secondary consideration

Is very similar but uses a slightly different word choice, while still maintaining essentially the same meaning.

supporting argument

Indicates a role in bolstering a primary claim, rather than standing alone.

subordinate idea

Highlights the hierarchical relationship between ideas, emphasizing one's dependence on the other.

minor detail

Focuses on the level of importance, suggesting something insignificant.

ancillary element

Highlights a supportive or auxiliary role, contributing to a larger whole.

lesser consideration

Emphasizes the reduced degree of attention or weight given to something.

peripheral matter

Indicates something on the edge of the main concern, less critical to the central point.

additional aspect

Suggests something supplementary, adding breadth but not necessarily central to the topic.

tangential subject

Suggests a connection that is indirect or loosely related to the primary topic.

side issue

Implies a tangential relevance, diverging slightly from the main subject.

FAQs

How can I effectively integrate a "secondary point" into my writing?

Introduce it after establishing your main argument. Use transitional phrases to signal its supporting role, ensuring it complements rather than overshadows the primary focus.

What's the difference between a "secondary point" and a supporting detail?

A "secondary point" is a related but less critical idea that adds context or depth, while a supporting detail directly proves or explains the main argument. The "supporting argument" is more closely tied to the main idea.

When is it appropriate to omit a "secondary point" from my writing?

If it distracts from the main argument, lacks relevance, or weakens your overall message, consider omitting it. Prioritize clarity and conciseness.

Are there alternatives to using the phrase "secondary point"?

Yes, depending on the context, you can use phrases like "minor detail", "supporting argument", or "additional aspect".