# thesis

/ˈθisəs/ (US) · /θˈiːsɪs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thesis
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 2. central argument

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

the main idea or theory that you want to prove in a piece of writing or a speech.

For teachers: a proposition or statement maintained by argument; the central premise of a rhetorical or logical work.

- The student's main thesis was that social media has changed how we make friends.
- The author's central thesis—that economic stability is a prerequisite for democratic growth—is supported by extensive historical data.

### 3. music/poetry beat

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

the part of a rhythm that is not stressed, or the downward movement of a conductor's hand.

For teachers: the unstressed part of a poetic foot or a musical measure; also the downbeat in conducting.

- The conductor marked the thesis of the bar with a clear downward motion.
- In classical prosody, the distinction between arsis and thesis is essential for understanding the rhythmic structure of the verse.

## Examples

- The essay's thesis is very clear.
- The central thesis of his book is that technology has fundamentally changed social relationships.
- While the author's overarching thesis about economic determinism is compelling, several of the supporting historical examples feel underdeveloped and fail to substantiate the claim fully.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.