the main course

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the main course" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of a meal to refer to the primary dish served during a dining experience. Example: "For dinner, we had a delicious salad as an appetizer, followed by the main course of grilled salmon with vegetables."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The main course?

The New York Times

They're not the main course.

The New York Times

On to the main course.

Independent

The main course was rabbit.

The New Yorker

The main course sometimes?

The New York Times

In China it's the main course.

The Economist

"What if vegetables were the main course?

The New York Times - Magazine

The main course was a cow head.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It would be the main course.

The New York Times - Food

The main course hadn't even arrived".

The New York Times - Arts

It nearly upstages the main course.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more descriptive adjectives to enhance the reader's understanding and anticipation of "the main course". For example, "the succulent main course" or "the hearty main course".

Common error

Avoid using "the main course" metaphorically without ensuring the audience understands the analogy. If discussing a topic, clearly establish how it relates to being a central or most important element.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the main course" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically identifies the most substantial or important dish served during a meal. Ludwig examples show it used to describe actual meals or metaphorically to indicate the most significant part of an event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the main course" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that identifies the primary dish of a meal. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and common occurrence across various contexts, especially in news and media. While its register is neutral, making it suitable for diverse settings, understanding its specific context ensures clear communication. Remember to avoid metaphorical uses without proper context and consider using descriptive adjectives to enhance reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the principal dish

Replaces "main" with "principal", emphasizing the importance or rank of the dish.

the primary entree

Uses "primary" and "entree" to convey the main dish in a slightly more formal setting.

the most important part of the meal

Directly states the dish's significance in the meal.

the featured item

Shifts focus to the item being highlighted or showcased, rather than just the main part.

the key component of the dinner

Focuses on the essential role the dish plays within the context of the entire dinner.

the centerpiece

Implies that the dish is a central attraction or focal point of the meal.

the highlight

Indicates that the dish is considered the best or most exciting part of the meal.

the main event

Metaphorically uses the term "event" to describe the meal, suggesting anticipation and importance.

the substantial component

Emphasizes the filling and significant nature of the dish.

the focal point of the meal

Highlights that the dish is the central and most important part of the dining experience.

FAQs

How do I use "the main course" in a sentence?

"The chef recommended the steak as "the main course"." or "After the appetizers, "the main course" was served promptly."

What are some alternatives to "the main course"?

You can use alternatives like "the principal dish", "the primary entree", or "the featured item" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "main course" or should I always use "the main course"?

Both are correct, but "the main course" is more common when referring to a specific meal's main dish. "Main course" without "the" can be used in general discussions about meal planning.

What is the difference between an entree and "the main course"?

In American English, "entree" is often used synonymously with "the main course". In other parts of the world, "entree" might refer to a dish served before "the main course".