topic sentence
/ˈtɒpɪk ˈsentəns/
Meaning
A topic sentence is the main sentence in a paragraph that states the central idea or point of that paragraph. It usually appears at the beginning of the paragraph and guides the reader on what to expect. In academic writing, it helps maintain focus and structure.
Examples
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Make sure your topic sentence clearly states the main argument of the paragraph.
Make sure your topic sentence clearly states the main argument of the paragraph.
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If your paragraph is getting too long, check if you are straying from your topic sentence.
If your paragraph is getting too long, check if you are straying from your topic sentence.
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A strong topic sentence hooks the reader and outlines the paragraph's direction.
A strong topic sentence hooks the reader and outlines the paragraph's direction.
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The professor advised us to rewrite our topic sentences to make them more concise.
The professor advised us to rewrite our topic sentences to make them more concise.
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Every supporting detail in this paragraph must relate back to the topic sentence.
Every supporting detail in this paragraph must relate back to the topic sentence.
Common Mistakes
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✗ The topic sentence of my essay is that climate change is bad.
✓ The thesis statement of my essay is that climate change is bad.
'Topic sentence' refers to the main idea of a single paragraph, not the entire essay. Use 'thesis statement' for the main argument of the whole essay.
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✗ I wrote a paragraph but it doesn't have a sentence of topic.
✓ I wrote a paragraph but it doesn't have a topic sentence.
'Topic sentence' is a compound noun and cannot be split or rephrased as 'sentence of topic'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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Every paragraph in your essay should begin with a clear ___ to introduce the main idea.
💡 It introduces the paragraph's main point
Show answer
topic sentence
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If you don't have a strong ___, readers might get confused about the purpose of the paragraph.
💡 The opening sentence that defines the paragraph's focus
Show answer
topic sentence