secondary topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "secondary topic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a subject that is not the main focus but still relevant to the overall discussion or context. Example: "In this presentation, we will first cover the primary topic of climate change, followed by a discussion on the secondary topic of renewable energy sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But that figures to be a secondary topic in Chicago this morning.

The New York Times

But as Mr. Gingrich made eye contact with a smattering of reporters, he said, "I know a number of you may have come for a secondary topic".

The New York Times

After a bland cold-open, wherein actor and host Margot Robbie "fact-checked" her monologue alongside a stream of available cast members, the show shifted to its secondary topic for the evening – how pretty Margot Robbie is.

The Guardian

It was a measure of the furore surrounding Trapattoni that the second most comprehensive competitive victory of his reign was a secondary topic on an eventful evening in the Faroes.

Independent

On Saturday Kelly said of coaching in the N.F.L.: "It's flattering if there is interest, which I don't know that there is, but again, that is such a secondary topic for me right now.

The New York Times - Sports

Authors distinguish between (a) websites that criticize all vaccines ("antivaccine" websites) and websites that criticize only some vaccines ("vaccine-selective" websites), and between (b) websites that focus on vaccines ("vaccine-focused" websites) and those for which vaccines were only a secondary topic of interest ("generalist" websites).

Vaccine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The Libya attack has risen to the forefront of the campaign even as other foreign policy issues, like the war in Afghanistan and the building confrontation with Iran, have remained secondary topics.

The New York Times

Each primary topic has secondary topics under which data are evaluated.

Forest Ecology and Management

What is noticeable is that hot topics (1) to (3) mostly relate to expanding services in OC retailing, while secondary topics (4) and (5) focus more or less on reducing logistics costs.

Business Research

Results on colposcopic impression, decision for biopsy, correctness of biopsy site, and other secondary topics will be reported.

BMC Health Services Research

This topic contained secondary topics of "Hardy-Weinberg principle" and "Test cross: back cross; concepts of parental, F1, and F2 generations".

CBE Life Sciences Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "secondary topic" to clearly distinguish between the main subject of discussion and related, but less important, points. This helps maintain focus and clarity.

Common error

Avoid treating a "secondary topic" as if it were the main focus. Ensure the primary subject remains the central point, and the "secondary topic" serves to support or complement it, not overshadow it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "secondary topic" functions as a noun phrase typically used to describe a subject that is of lesser importance compared to the main subject under discussion. Ludwig AI confirms that it's correct to use this phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "secondary topic" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a subject of lesser importance relative to a primary focus. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is acceptable and usable in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears in diverse contexts, including science, news, and business, signaling its broad applicability. When employing this phrase, it is vital to maintain a clear distinction between the main topic and the "secondary topic", ensuring the primary subject remains the central point. Consider using alternatives like "minor subject" or "peripheral issue" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor subject

Emphasizes the reduced importance of the topic.

lesser theme

Highlights that the topic is a less significant theme within a larger work or discussion.

peripheral issue

Indicates the topic is on the edge or not central to the main point.

side issue

Suggests the topic branches off from the primary discussion.

subsidiary matter

Implies the topic is supportive but not essential.

ancillary point

Denotes the topic is helpful but not crucial.

related subject

Indicates a connection, but not a primary focus.

incidental aspect

Highlights the topic as a minor component.

tangential area

Suggests the topic is only loosely connected.

secondary concern

Indicates the topic is of lower priority.

FAQs

How can I use "secondary topic" in a sentence?

You can use "secondary topic" to refer to a subject that is related to the main focus but is not the primary point of discussion. For instance, "While climate change is the primary concern, renewable energy sources are a "secondary topic" we also need to address."

What are some alternatives to "secondary topic"?

Alternatives include phrases like "minor subject", "peripheral issue", or "related subject", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to dedicate significant time to a "secondary topic"?

It depends on the context. While the primary focus should remain on the main subject, a "secondary topic" can warrant attention if it provides valuable insights or context. However, avoid letting it overshadow the primary topic.

What's the difference between a "secondary topic" and a primary one?

A primary topic is the main focus of a discussion, while a "secondary topic" is related but of lesser importance. The primary topic takes precedence, and the "secondary topic" serves to enhance or support the understanding of the primary one.