What is a central theme or message of a speech referred to as?

The central theme or message of a speech is referred to as a thesis statement. This term specifically denotes the main idea or argument that the speaker intends to convey to the audience. It serves as a roadmap for the speech, guiding both the speaker and the audience through the content and ensuring that the message remains focused and coherent. A well-defined thesis statement helps the audience understand the primary purpose of the speech, making it easier for them to follow along and grasp the overall argument being made.

In contrast, other options like action statements, main points, and supporting details serve different functions within the structure of a speech. An action statement usually outlines what the speaker wants the audience to do as a result of the speech, while main points are the key arguments or subtopics that support the thesis statement. Supporting details further elaborate on these main points, providing evidence or examples to reinforce the argument, but do not encapsulate the overarching message of the speech itself.