the main concern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the main concern" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are expressing the most important worry that you have about something. For example: "The main concern I have about the plan is how long it will take to complete."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The main concern was for the horses.

The New York Times

Hitting was clearly not the main concern.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet the main concern was unwanted customers.

The New York Times

The main concern is safety.

The Guardian

Batting is the main concern.

The Guardian - Sport

"But the main concern is the player.

The New York Times - Sports

Their needs should be the main concern.

The Guardian

But the main concern was the spray.

The Guardian - Sport

The main concern is a cystic tumor.

Journal of Pediatric Urology

The main concern was the motor response time.

Cornell University

But Tuilagi is the main concern for England.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the main concern", ensure it is immediately followed by a clear explanation of what that concern entails to provide context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "the main concern" without specifying why it is a concern. Always provide enough context so the reader understands the underlying issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the main concern" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces the most important worry or issue under consideration, directing the reader's attention to the central problem. Ludwig AI confirms that it can be readily used in a written context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the main concern" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase for highlighting the most important issue or worry in a particular context. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various writing styles, with a neutral register that fits both formal and informal settings. While versatile, it is crucial to provide clear context following the phrase to avoid vagueness and ensure the reader understands the specific issue at hand. Related phrases like "the principal issue" and "the chief worry" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression depending on the intended focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the chief worry

This alternative directly highlights the anxiety or apprehension associated with a situation.

the foremost anxiety

The alternative highlights an anxiety with a situation.

the principal issue

This alternative shifts the focus to a specific problem or matter requiring attention.

the key issue

This alternative emphasizes that there is a relevant problem

the primary focus

This option emphasizes what is being given the most attention or importance.

the major preoccupation

This suggests a state of being mentally engrossed or concerned with something.

the biggest problem

This phrase underlines that the main concern is effectively considered a difficulty to be solved.

the overriding priority

This alternative suggests that the concern takes precedence over all other considerations.

the central question

This alternative highlights that the main concern is an open question to be answered.

the crucial point

This option highlights what's a turning point.

FAQs

How can I use "the main concern" in a sentence?

You can use "the main concern" to introduce the most important issue or worry about a situation. For example: "The main concern is the lack of funding for the project."

What phrases are similar to "the main concern"?

Similar phrases include "the principal issue", "the chief worry", or "the primary focus", which can be used depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "the main concern" in formal writing?

Yes, "the main concern" is appropriate for formal writing as it is a clear and direct way to express the most important issue. Ensure that you provide sufficient context and details to support your statement.

What is the difference between "the main concern" and "a concern"?

"The main concern" indicates the single most important issue, while "a concern" refers to any issue that causes worry or attention. Using "the main concern" highlights that the issue is the primary focus.