topic sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

"topic sentence" is a correct and usable term in written English.
It can be used to introduce the main point of a paragraph in an essay or other written work. For example: "As the debate over gun control continues, Americans are increasingly divided on the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

People talk for hours without uttering a single topic sentence.

The New Yorker

Skilled practitioners can demonstrate the power of facts, and provide models — topic sentence by topic sentence — for compelling narrative.

The New York Times

But why then isn't it a topic sentence?

The New York Times - Books

Supporting sentences follow the topic sentence.

BBC

Introduce each paragraph with a topic sentence.

University of Chicago

The topic sentence presents the main ideas of the paragraph.

BBC

Which topic sentence is best for this paragraph?

BBC

After the topic sentence, good paragraphs contain one or more 'supporting sentences' which explain the topic sentence in more detail.

BBC

The supporting sentences might include reasons for the reader to agree with the topic sentence, or examples that explain or develop the topic sentence.

BBC

I can't remember the last time I wrote a thesis statement or topic sentence.

TechCrunch

The first (topic) sentence of each paragraph should state the point or answer the question.

Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When crafting a "topic sentence", ensure it directly relates to your essay's thesis statement to maintain a focused and coherent argument.

Common error

Don't create a "topic sentence" that's too broad or generic. Make sure it provides a clear and specific focus for the paragraph's content.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "topic sentence" functions as a noun phrase, identifying a specific element of writing. It serves to name the sentence that encapsulates the main idea of a paragraph. Ludwig examples confirm its use in academic writing, journalism, and general writing guides.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

42%

News & Media

35%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "topic sentence" is a widely used and grammatically correct term in English, referring to the sentence that introduces the main idea of a paragraph. Ludwig AI confirms that "topic sentence" is used across diverse writing contexts, from academic papers to journalism and general writing guides. It's essential for writers to understand its function and purpose, ensuring that paragraphs are well-structured and coherent. When crafting a strong "topic sentence", clarity and specificity are key to engage the reader and focus the paragraph's content effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main idea sentence

Focuses on the core concept rather than the structural role in a paragraph.

thesis statement of paragraph

Emphasizes the argument being presented in that specific paragraph.

controlling idea sentence

Highlights the aspect of guiding or governing the content of the paragraph.

introductory sentence of paragraph

Focuses on the position and function as an opening.

paragraph's central claim

Stresses the assertion being made in the paragraph.

subject sentence

A more general term that can refer to the sentence identifying the subject.

core sentence

Highlights the sentence as the essential part.

lead sentence

Emphasizes its role of 'leading' the reader into a paragraph.

key sentence

Highlights the importance of the sentence as the key.

opening sentence

Highlights the sentence as the one that opens.

FAQs

How do I write an effective "topic sentence"?

An effective "topic sentence" should clearly state the main point of your paragraph, relate to your thesis statement, and be engaging enough to capture the reader's attention.

What's the purpose of a "topic sentence" in a paragraph?

The purpose of a "topic sentence" is to introduce the main idea of the paragraph, providing a clear focus for the supporting details and evidence that follow.

Where should I place the "topic sentence" in a paragraph?

The "topic sentence" is typically placed at the beginning of the paragraph, but it can also appear in the middle or at the end, depending on the desired emphasis and flow. Experiment with placement to achieve the best effect.

What are some alternatives to calling it a "topic sentence"?

You can use alternatives like "main idea sentence", "thesis statement of paragraph", or "controlling idea sentence" depending on the specific context.