the primary method

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the primary method" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the main or most important technique or approach in a particular context or field. Example: "In our research, the primary method for data collection was surveys."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The statement emphasised that lethal injection remains the primary method for carrying out executions in Utah.

The Guardian

A widespread mistrust of contraception means abortion has remained the primary method of birth control.

The Guardian

But relying on it as the primary method of birth control is another thing entirely, because those programs often fail.

The New Yorker

"Illustration used to be the primary method by which fashion houses introduced styles," Ms. Mulcahy said on Tuesday.

The New York Times - Arts

Trucks will not be the primary method for moving waste or water, he said.

The New York Times

Binary fission is the primary method of reproduction of prokaryotic organisms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For many, the yearly physical is the primary method for forming this relationship.

The New York Times

While music has been the primary method of working through such themes of gender, sexuality and identity, Hval has found numerous other ways of exploring them.

The Guardian - Music

Yet, tripling student loans has raised public finance fears, with student number controls the primary method of defence against over-exposure.

The Guardian

Full-body imaging machines are in use in 19 airports in the United States and are being used as the primary method of screening at six.

The New York Times

The primary method of bombardment has been Title 18, Section 1030 of the U.S. Code, known as the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure that the context clearly establishes what the "primary method" is in relation to, to avoid ambiguity. For example, "In this study, the primary method of data analysis was regression."

Common error

Avoid using "the primary method" when the context already implies that the method is the most important or only one. Instead, consider using simpler terms like "the method" or rephrasing to emphasize the action or process itself, instead of the method's importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the primary method" functions as a noun phrase that identifies and specifies the most important or main way of achieving a particular task or goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable term in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the primary method" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to denote the main or most important approach in a given situation. As supported by Ludwig AI, it is widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While versatile, it is important to ensure that its use is not redundant and that the context clearly establishes its relevance. Consider alternatives like "the main method" or "the leading method" for variety. By adhering to these guidelines, you can effectively and accurately use "the primary method" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the main method

Replaces "primary" with "main", emphasizing the principal approach.

the principal method

Uses "principal" instead of "primary", highlighting the leading or foremost way.

the chief method

Substitutes "primary" with "chief", stressing the most important technique.

the leading method

Replaces "primary" with "leading", focusing on the most prominent approach.

the foremost method

Uses "foremost" instead of "primary", pointing to the most important way.

the key method

Substitutes "primary" with "key", emphasizing the most crucial technique.

the dominant method

Replaces "primary" with "dominant", highlighting the most influential approach.

the main way

Simplifies the phrase to "the main way", making it less formal.

the go-to method

Uses "go-to" instead of "primary", indicating the most commonly used technique.

the favored method

Replaces "primary" with "favored", implying the preferred approach.

FAQs

How can I use "the primary method" in a sentence?

You can use "the primary method" to indicate the main or most important technique or approach. For example, "In our research, the primary method for data collection was surveys."

What can I say instead of "the primary method"?

You can use alternatives like "the main method", "the principal method", or "the leading method" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "the primary method" or "a primary method"?

"The primary method" is used when referring to the single most important method. "A primary method" can be used when listing one of several important methods, but it's usually better to say "one of the primary methods".

Is "the primary method" formal or informal?

"The primary method" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but consider simpler alternatives like "the main way" in more casual writing.