the underlying premise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the underlying premise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the foundational idea or assumption that supports an argument, theory, or concept. Example: "The underlying premise of her argument is that all humans have an inherent desire for connection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

sufficient to meet the underlying premise of Diff-Serv architcture.

Princeton University

In the light of this, we accept that the underlying premise of our articles were wrong.

The Guardian

The underlying premise of this approach is that all non-endangered species are equal.

The Guardian

DIRECT, we argue that the underlying premise that disks should not expose bit errors is incorrect.

Princeton University

The underlying premise of the studio is the current historical tendency toward high density urban concentration.

Yale University

"Take that as the underlying premise, that cycles, as our market has evolved, are a given.

The New York Times

Still, the underlying premise that you should diversify across time will strike most people as sound.

The New York Times

Either way, the underlying premise of the rumors remains that a Muslim is unfit to be president.

The New York Times

I believe in its existence, and am comfortable representing cases in which witchcraft is the underlying premise.

The Guardian

Finally, it is by no means clear that the underlying premise of the above argument is valid.

Harvard University

At a debate in October, however, Mr. Romney disagreed with the underlying premise of the president's payroll tax break.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the underlying premise", ensure that the premise is clearly articulated or easily inferred by the reader to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid presenting the underlying premise as a conclusion. The premise should be the starting point of an argument, not the end result.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the underlying premise" functions as a noun phrase identifying a foundational assumption or belief upon which an argument, theory, or concept is based. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

27%

Science

24%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the underlying premise" is a noun phrase used to denote a foundational assumption or belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently employed across various domains, including news, academia, and science. It serves to introduce the core idea supporting an argument or theory. When employing this phrase, ensure the premise is clear and distinct from the conclusion. Related phrases include "the basic assumption" and "the fundamental principle". By understanding and utilizing "the underlying premise" effectively, writers can enhance the clarity and coherence of their arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the basic assumption

Replaces 'premise' with 'assumption', emphasizing the taken-for-granted nature of the idea.

the fundamental principle

Substitutes 'premise' with 'principle', highlighting the foundational nature of the idea as a guiding rule.

the core belief

Replaces 'premise' with 'belief', focusing on the conviction aspect of the foundational idea.

the central tenet

Uses 'tenet' instead of 'premise', emphasizing the idea as a key doctrine or belief.

the root assumption

Highlights that the assumption is at the very base or origin of something.

the starting point

Indicates the initial idea or basis from which an argument or theory develops.

the foundational concept

Emphasizes that the concept serves as a foundation for further ideas or arguments.

the implicit assumption

Focuses on the unstated nature of the foundational idea.

the unspoken premise

Highlights that the premise is not explicitly stated but is understood.

the bedrock principle

This emphasizes the firmness and stability of the principle as the foundation.

FAQs

How can I use "the underlying premise" in a sentence?

You can use "the underlying premise" to introduce a fundamental idea or assumption upon which an argument or theory is built. For example, "The underlying premise of this argument is that all people are inherently good".

What are some alternatives to saying "the underlying premise"?

Alternatives include "the basic assumption", "the fundamental principle", or "the core belief", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "premise" or "assumption" in "the underlying premise"?

Both "premise" and "assumption" can work. "Premise" often implies a more formal and explicit statement, while "assumption" can refer to something taken for granted or not explicitly stated. Choose the word that best fits the context.

What's the difference between "the underlying premise" and "the main idea"?

"The underlying premise" refers to a foundational assumption or belief, whereas "the main idea" is the central point or theme of a discussion or text. The premise supports the idea.