which revolves around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which revolves around" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the central theme or focus of a discussion, topic, or concept. Example: "The documentary is about climate change, which revolves around the impact of human activity on the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Stalin hated the opera, which revolves around adultery and murder, and had it banned.

The New York Times

There is even Trump's own explanation, which revolves around Syria (and the Islamic State).

The New York Times

"Politicians are elected to deliver their own philosophy, which revolves around localisation and participation.

The Guardian

His world, which revolves around a farmhouse in Somerset, is more reconciled perhaps, but the ghosts are far from vanquished.

Independent

And as for the coronation of a monarch, it is a ceremony which revolves around the hereditary peerage.

The Economist

But does "The Next Day," which revolves around references to death and to Bowie's own work, complete that transition?

The New Yorker

Malaysia has a rich cultural life, much of which revolves around the traditional festivities of its diverse population.

Britannica

And the plot of Spook Country (which revolves around the concept of GPS triangulation) is fiendishly indirect.

The Guardian

The playwright and actress gets treated for Lyme disease and discusses her new show, which revolves around a cancer ward.

The New Yorker

Her most happily ever after story is Donovan's Big Day which revolves around the day his two mums get married.

The Guardian

Christopher Sorrentino's Trance (Cape) - which revolves around the Patty Hearst kidnapping - is a resounding and substantial novel.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using alternatives like "that centers on" or "that focuses on" to vary your writing style and avoid repetition, while maintaining clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "which revolves around" in very simple sentences where a more direct verb like 'concerns' or 'is about' would be more concise and effective. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which revolves around" functions as a relative clause, specifically a nonrestrictive (or non-essential) clause, providing additional information about the noun it modifies. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Encyclopedias

11%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "which revolves around" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a nonrestrictive relative clause to highlight the central theme or core element of a subject. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal contexts. Alternatives like "that centers on" and "that focuses on" can add variety to your writing. Avoid overuse in overly simplistic sentences. This phrase is common in news, encyclopedias and scientific publications, reflecting its utility in defining the central focus of diverse subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that centers on

Emphasizes the focal point or central theme.

that focuses on

Highlights the main area of attention or concern.

that is based on

Indicates the foundation or underlying principle.

that is about

A simple and direct way to indicate the subject matter.

that concerns itself with

Suggests a preoccupation or engagement with a particular subject.

that deals with

Implies handling or addressing a specific issue or topic.

that is concentrated on

Emphasizes the concentration of effort or attention.

that hinges on

Highlights the critical point upon which something depends.

that pivots around

Suggests a turning point or central axis.

that is dedicated to

Implies a commitment or focus towards a specific purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "which revolves around" in a sentence?

Use "which revolves around" to connect a clause that describes the central theme or focus of something. For instance, "The course, "which revolves around" sustainable practices, is designed to educate students on environmental conservation."

What are some alternatives to "which revolves around"?

You can use alternatives like "that centers on", "that focuses on", or "that is based on" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "that revolves around" instead of "which revolves around"?

While both can be grammatically correct, "which" is generally preferred when introducing a nonrestrictive clause (a clause that adds extra information but is not essential to the sentence's meaning). "That" is typically used for restrictive clauses (essential clauses).

What's the difference between "which revolves around" and "which focuses on"?

"Which revolves around" implies that something is central or fundamental to the subject, whereas "which focuses on" simply means that the subject gives particular attention to something. The former suggests a core element, while the latter suggests a specific area of emphasis.