this is central

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is central" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the importance or significance of a particular point or idea in a discussion or argument. Example: "In understanding the complexities of climate change, this is central to our approach: the need for immediate action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

This is central to Glyndebourne's business model.

The Guardian - Arts

This is central to its appeal.

The New York Times - Books

This is central to his achievement.

The Guardian - Books

This is central to the government's social strategy.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is central to what N.Y.U. is going to be in the future.

The New York Times

Publicly stating one's creed like this is central to jihadi ethics.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

On a miniature scale, this was Central Park being broken up, spread among the boroughs.

The New York Times - Sports

Don't forget this was central to ITV's rights growth strategy and it bombed".

The Guardian

For supporters, this was central to his appeal he owed nothing to the establishment.

The New Yorker

This was central to his view of his role as a member of parliament and premier.

The Guardian

This is Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design (CSM), which for decades has been the place where Britain's brightest young creatives have come to develop their talents (it evolved into its present incarnation in 1989, when the Central School of Art and Design merged with Saint Martins School of Art).

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the core element of an argument or analysis, use "this is central" to highlight its importance. Ensure the context clearly establishes what "this" refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "this is central" in situations where simpler alternatives like "this is important" or "this matters" would suffice. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing sound unnecessarily formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is central" functions as a declarative statement emphasizing the importance or necessity of a particular element or idea. It directly asserts that something is a core component, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "this is central" is a versatile tool for emphasizing the importance of an idea or element, suitable for various contexts but most common in news, science, and formal business settings. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. To enhance your writing, remember to use it judiciously, particularly in more formal writing and also consider alternatives like "this is crucial" or "this is key" to avoid repetition. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively integrate "this is central" into your vocabulary to add emphasis to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is crucial

Replaces "central" with "crucial", indicating a critical or decisive element.

this is key

Substitutes "central" with "key", suggesting a vital or essential component.

this is essential

Replaces "central" with "essential", highlighting the indispensable nature of something.

this is paramount

Substitutes "central" with "paramount", stressing the supreme importance.

this is vital

Replaces "central" with "vital", indicating a necessity for life or success.

this is fundamental

Substitutes "central" with "fundamental", emphasizing a basic or foundational aspect.

this is of utmost importance

Expands the phrase to explicitly state "utmost importance", adding emphasis.

this is at the heart of

Uses a metaphorical expression to indicate the core or essence of something.

this is indispensable

Replaces the original phrase with a stronger emphasis on necessity.

this is significant

Substitutes "central" with "significant", emphasizing the importance or impact.

FAQs

How can I use "this is central" in a sentence?

Use "this is central" to emphasize a key point or idea. For example: "Understanding the underlying principles of quantum physics, "this is central" to grasping modern technology."

What phrases are similar to "this is central"?

Alternatives include "this is crucial", "this is key", or "this is essential". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "this is central" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "this is central" is generally more suited for formal or professional contexts. Simpler phrases might be preferable in casual writing.

How can I avoid overusing the phrase "this is central"?

Vary your language by using synonyms like "this is pivotal", "this is fundamental", or rephrasing to directly state the importance of the element in question.