main
adjective
Chief in size, extent, or importance; principal.
Example Sentences
The main reason for his success is his dedication.
The main road was closed due to construction.
She addressed the main issues during the meeting.
The main objective of the project is to reduce costs.
They attended the main event at the conference.
The main building of the campus is undergoing renovations.
The main idea of the book revolves around friendship.
He invested in the main stock market index.
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noun (countable)
A principal supply of electric current.
Example Sentences
They experienced a power outage due to mains failure.
The electrician checked the mains for any issues.
Ensure the mains are properly insulated to prevent electrical hazards.
The mains deliver electricity to all the apartments in the building.
A surge protector was installed to safeguard the mains.
The mains voltage was too high, causing equipment damage.
They upgraded the mains to handle increased electrical load.
The technician inspected the mains connection for safety.
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adverb
Used to indicate that something is the primary or most important.
Example Sentences
The project is mainly focused on renewable energy.
He is chiefly responsible for the marketing strategy.
The discussion was primarily about budget allocations.
She dedicates her time principally to volunteer work.
The event is mainly attended by professionals in the field.
They are primarily interested in expanding their market reach.
The book is chiefly an analysis of economic trends.
He spends his weekends mainly hiking and exploring nature.
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How to Use
Denotes something of greatest significance or central prominence.Most commonly used as an adjective, “main” points to whatever holds the highest importance, priority, or size within a larger set. For example, in “the main idea,” “main” highlights the central concept around which other details revolve. If you talk about “the main entrance,” you imply it is the principal or primary entry point, distinguishing it from smaller, secondary doors. In conversation or writing, “main” ensures clarity by zeroing in on the element you consider most critical: “His main concern is safety,” or “Our main goal is to expand next quarter.” By emphasizing what’s primary, you guide your audience to focus on the key point or the biggest factor. “Main” can occasionally serve as a noun, as in historical references like “the Spanish Main” (denoting certain coastal waters) or in technical contexts (e.g., “the water main”). In those settings, “main” refers to a central channel, body, or supply line. Regardless of context—whether emphasizing the core argument, the chief door to a building, or a principal pipeline—“main” signals that you’re dealing with the headlining or most notable aspect. Pairing it with nouns effectively helps you define priorities and structure within your subject matter, streamlining your communication and underscoring what’s paramount.
Alternatives
Synonyms for the adjective “main” vary by context. In formal texts, you might use “primary,” “principal,” or “chief” if you want a similar sense of priority or importance, as in “the primary objective,” “the principal door,” or “the chief factor.” For broader or slightly informal usage, words like “key” or “major” also fit—e.g., “the key focus,” “the major reason.” Each synonym preserves the essence of something being first in importance, though “principal” and “chief” often read more formally, while “key” or “major” sound more casual.If referencing pipelines or routes, “main line” or “primary line” are near equivalents, though “main line” remains the traditional term. If you need to shift from describing an entrance or portion of a building, “primary entrance,” “central pathway,” or “principal route” might work. For older or nautical references to “the main,” “the open sea” or “the high seas” can be substituted. Keep in mind that each choice carries a distinct tone—“chief” can read as more authoritative, whereas “key” lends a modern, concise style. Your final selection depends on the formality and clarity you seek.
Writing
When using “main” in writing, pinpoint the precise noun you wish to emphasize. Placing “main” immediately before that noun—“the main advantage,” “the main argument,” or “the main campus”—keeps your text coherent and straightforward. If you have multiple points, use “main” sparingly. Labeling every point as “main” dilutes the term’s impact, so reserve it for the single most vital element. In academic or professional work, consider employing synonyms like “primary” or “principal” if you’re layering multiple elements: “The principal objective is…” or “Our primary challenge lies in…” This not only enriches variety but can also sharpen focus for your audience. When describing infrastructure—like a water main or power main—be specific about function: “The water main suffered damage,” clarifies both the subject (the pipeline) and the event (damage), guiding readers to the critical piece of news.For creative writing or narratives, “main character” or “main event” ensures readers know who or what to track. Still, more descriptive phrases—“the novel’s central figure,” “the pivotal moment”—offer tonal variety. Lastly, if you’re weaving older or nautical settings, you might reference “the Spanish Main” or “beyond the main,” granting historical or adventurous flavor. Whether formal, creative, or technical, “main” works best when it highlights a singular, paramount factor that shapes the rest of your discussion.
Casual Conversation
In everyday speech, “main” is a quick, easy way to signal what’s most important: “The main thing is to keep calm,” “Our main problem right now is scheduling,” or “What’s the main benefit of doing it this way?” You’ll also hear it when clarifying major goals—“My main priority is finishing this report,” or “Her main worry is the deadline.” Such statements smoothly zero in on the biggest concern or focal point, ensuring friends or colleagues know where your attention lies.If you’re giving directions, you might say, “Go down the main road,” marking it as the major thoroughfare rather than a side street. Or in a casual property discussion, “We’re on the main line for water and sewer,” clarifies that your utility connections are direct. When you simply want to highlight the chief reason, aim, or topic, “main” does the job without unnecessary complexity. Additionally, “main” might appear in quick disclaimers like “The main thing is, I don’t want any drama,” or “The main reason I showed up was for the free pizza.” It’s a no-frills word that underscores your biggest takeaway or motive, common in laid-back chats among family, friends, or coworkers. Everyone understands that “main” is your straightforward pointer to what matters most in the moment.
Etymology
The English word “main” derives from Old English “mægen,” meaning “power, strength, or force.” Over time, this sense of might shifted toward ideas of centrality or primacy. Middle English adapted “maine” to denote something chief or major, thus connecting an element’s essentialness to its underlying force or significance. Historically, “the main” also referred to “the open sea,” an echo of the vast power and expanse found in the ocean. Early cartographers and explorers labeled coastal waters of significance—like “the Spanish Main”—underscoring where formidable events occurred. In modern usage, “main” became more simplified: from denoting might or large-scale influence, it moved closer to “primary,” “principal,” or “leading.” Hence, whether referencing “main idea” or “main land,” the word carries its centuries-old aura of essence, power, or prominence, bridging ancient roots with today’s straightforward emphasis on what’s crucial.