the earlier points

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the earlier points" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer back to points or arguments that were made previously in a discussion or text. Example: "In conclusion, we should consider the earlier points regarding the impact of climate change on agriculture."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It is possible that the unusual V3 sequences may be viable despite their very distinctive form, as they do not represent common 454 errors in the earlier points from this subject, but are common only in the third sample after 16 weeks under selective pressure.

Plosone

At the earlier points in time (3 days and 1 week), none of the mentioned growth patterns was at all noticeable, as the tumors at these points were still fairly small and limited.

Clinical and Experimental Metastasis

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

That goes to the earlier point about the need for an active and involved citizenry.

The New Yorker

All that brings back the earlier point that music is not an international language.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the same vein as the earlier point on honesty, previous experiences have made me somewhat bitter towards timely excuses.

The Guardian

The third dimension reiterates the earlier point of the centrality of institutional processes and their co-production with bio-objects.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

Sixth, following from the earlier point about identity, the identity of every single person is defined by its existence and this applies to heavenly bodies as well.

SEP

This is equivalent to the earlier point that you can add or subtract multiples of 7 as you wish.

WikiHow

Conversion data were measured at different catalyst amount/reactant flow rate ratios and the initial rate was extrapolated from the early points.

Catalysis Today

"The early points in the second half settled us down and we defended superbly and we managed to pull away in the end".

BBC

"We didn't take the early points that could have given us a cushion and some confidence going forward," Saumi told BBC Radio Devon.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the earlier points", ensure the reference is clear and the reader can easily identify which points you are referring back to. Providing context or a brief recap can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "the earlier points" if the context has shifted significantly or if several other points have been made since the initial ones. This can lead to confusion. Instead, rephrase the points or use more specific identifiers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the earlier points" functions as a determiner phrase specifying which "points" are being referred to. It acts as a noun modifier, indicating points that were previously mentioned or discussed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the earlier points" is a grammatically correct phrase used to refer back to previously mentioned ideas or arguments. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is acceptable in written English. While the phrase has a neutral register and is suitable for diverse contexts like science, news, and encyclopedias, its frequency is relatively rare. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to provide sufficient context when using this phrase to avoid vague references. Alternatives like "the aforementioned points" can offer a more formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the points mentioned previously

Replaces "earlier" with a more explicit term, emphasizing the temporal aspect of having been mentioned before.

the aforementioned points

Uses a more formal term to indicate points previously referenced, suitable for academic or legal contexts.

the previously discussed points

Focuses on the aspect of discussion rather than mere existence, implying a conversational or deliberative context.

the points noted before

Simple and direct, this alternative highlights the act of noting or recording information earlier in the text or discussion.

the foregoing points

A formal alternative, often used in legal or academic writing to refer to what has preceded.

the points presented earlier

Emphasizes the act of presenting information, suggesting a structured or formal delivery.

the points addressed previously

Highlights that the points have been actively dealt with or discussed, not just mentioned.

the points considered before

Indicates that these points have been given thought and attention at a prior time.

the initial arguments

Specifically refers to the early stages of an argument or debate, emphasizing the beginning.

the preliminary considerations

Focuses on the preparatory or introductory nature of the points, indicating they were part of a setup.

FAQs

How can I use "the earlier points" in a sentence?

You can use "the earlier points" to refer back to ideas or arguments previously mentioned in a discussion or text. For example: "In light of "the earlier points" regarding funding, we need to adjust our budget."

What is a more formal way to say "the earlier points"?

More formal alternatives include "the aforementioned points" or "the foregoing points", which are suitable for academic or legal writing.

When is it appropriate to use "the earlier points" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "the earlier points" when you want to succinctly refer back to ideas or arguments that have already been introduced and are still relevant to the current discussion. Ensure that the reference is clear to your audience.

What's the difference between "the earlier points" and "the previous points"?

While both phrases refer to points made before, "the earlier points" might suggest a broader timeframe or a set of points made further back in the discussion, whereas "the previous points" typically refers to the immediately preceding ones.