Be a key factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Be a key factor" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the importance or influence of a particular element in a situation or outcome. Example: "Effective communication can be a key factor in the success of any project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Price will be a key factor.

The Guardian - Business

Among some undecided voters, that could be a key factor.

The New Yorker

Social deprivation is proving to be a key factor.

The Guardian

But it could be a key factor in the game.

The New York Times - Sports

Hyperinsulinemic insulin resistance is thought to be a key factor.

Fertility and Sterility

It absolutely could be a key factor in the coming election".

The Guardian - Business

Matarić concluded that, as with human caregivers, temperament would be a key factor.

The New Yorker

Technology will be a key factor in holding temperatures to a modest level.

The Guardian

Mr. House said the willingness of Americans to gamble big might be a key factor.

The New York Times - Arts

"This could be a key factor for other traits of agricultural importance," said Kochian.

Cornell University

Domestic politics seems to be a key factor in most of these cases.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Be a key factor", ensure it is followed by a specific explanation of how or why the subject is important. For example, "Strong leadership can be a key factor in project success because it ensures clear communication and effective problem-solving."

Common error

Avoid using "Be a key factor" when the element's contribution is minor or secondary. Overusing this phrase can dilute its impact and credibility. Reserve it for truly significant influences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Be a key factor" functions as a predicate nominative, typically following a linking verb such as "is", "will be", or "can be". It identifies or describes the subject by attributing to it the quality of being significantly important. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Reference

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Be a key factor" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to emphasize the significance or influence of something in achieving a particular outcome. Ludwig AI confirms that this expression is correct and usable in various contexts. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific sources, with a neutral formality suitable for professional and informal communications. When using this phrase, it's important to provide context on how or why the subject is important. Related phrases include "play a crucial role" and "serve as an essential element". Overusing the phrase or applying it to minor contributions should be avoided to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Play a crucial role

Emphasizes the importance of the function performed.

Serve as an essential element

Highlights the necessity of the component.

Be a significant contributor

Focuses on the aspect of contributing to a result.

Prove to be instrumental

Highlights usefulness and helpfulness.

Weigh heavily

Indicates a strong influence or importance.

Carry weight

Implies influence or importance in a decision.

Be of great importance

Directly expresses high significance.

Act as a major influence

Highlights the effect on a situation.

Figure prominently

Indicates that something is very noticeable or important.

Make a difference

Emphasizes the impact or effect of something.

FAQs

How can I use "Be a key factor" in a sentence?

You can use "Be a key factor" to emphasize the importance of something in achieving a particular outcome. For instance, "Adaptability can "be a key factor" in navigating a rapidly changing market".

What can I say instead of "Be a key factor"?

You can use alternatives like "play a crucial role", "serve as an essential element", or "be a significant contributor" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "Is a key factor" instead of "Be a key factor"?

The choice between "Is a key factor" and "Be a key factor" depends on the sentence structure. "Is a key factor" is used when describing a current state, while "Be a key factor" is used when stating a potential or conditional importance. For example: "Teamwork is a key factor for success" vs. "Teamwork will "be a key factor" in the upcoming project".

What's the difference between "Be a key factor" and "Have a key factor"?

"Be a key factor" indicates that something constitutes an essential element, whereas "Have a key factor" suggests possessing or incorporating that crucial element. For example: "Experience will "be a key factor"" versus "The company needs to "have a key factor" for success in the market".