Be instrumental

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Be instrumental" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something plays a significant role in achieving a particular outcome or goal. Example: "Her contributions to the project were crucial; she truly was instrumental in its success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Music may be instrumental or vocal.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Fleming was thought to be instrumental in the Kmart bankruptcy.

The New York Times

His Bible will be instrumental in that Englishing.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

These notes will be instrumental in completing the homework.

The New York Times

Gene-expression profiles could be instrumental in realizing these improvements4.

Nature

The college should be instrumental in adapting simulators to education.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Most are instrumental.

The New York Times - Arts

It was instrumental guitar.

The New York Times

"It was instrumental".

The New York Times

He was instrumental.

The New York Times - Sports

Some themes were instrumental.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be instrumental" to emphasize the significant role someone or something plays in achieving a specific outcome. Ensure the context clearly identifies what is being influenced and the nature of the contribution.

Common error

Avoid using "be instrumental" when the contribution is minor or secondary. Overusing the phrase dilutes its impact. Choose a weaker term to describe smaller or less important contributions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be instrumental" functions primarily as an adjective phrase that describes the degree of importance or influence something has on a particular outcome. Ludwig examples confirm it's used to emphasize the significance of a person's or thing's contribution.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be instrumental" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the significant role someone or something plays in achieving a specific outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across various professional and academic contexts. While "be instrumental" often appears in neutral to formal registers, it's crucial to ensure its usage accurately reflects the degree of influence, avoiding overstatement. Consider alternatives like "play a key role" or "contribute significantly" to fine-tune your message. Understanding these nuances allows for more precise and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

play a key role

Focuses on the importance of the role played, rather than the direct action of being a tool.

be a significant factor

Highlights the importance as a contributing element, but less directly implies causation.

contribute significantly

Emphasizes the act of contributing, changing the focus from a state of being to an action.

be crucial

Stresses the absolute necessity of something, potentially implying a higher degree of importance.

be vital

Similar to 'crucial', stressing the importance of the role played by something.

be essential

Indicates necessity but can sometimes imply a more basic or foundational role.

be critical

Similar to 'crucial' and 'vital', suggesting a high level of importance and necessity.

have a major impact

Shifts focus to the effect rather than the active role in achieving something.

be a driving force

Suggests a more proactive and energetic influence, leading the way.

facilitate significantly

Highlights the action of making something easier, rather than being a direct cause.

FAQs

How can I use "be instrumental" in a sentence?

You can use "be instrumental" to describe someone or something that plays a key role in achieving a particular outcome. For example, "His guidance proved to "be instrumental" in helping her receive effective treatment".

What can I say instead of "be instrumental"?

You can use alternatives like "play a key role", "be a significant factor", or "contribute significantly" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "be instrumental to" or "be instrumental in"?

While both prepositions can be used, "be instrumental in" is more common and generally preferred. "Be instrumental to" can be used when indicating who or what benefits from the action.

What's the difference between "be instrumental" and "be helpful"?

"Be instrumental" implies a critical or essential contribution to an outcome, while "be helpful" suggests simply providing assistance, which may not be crucial for the final result. "Be instrumental" indicates a higher degree of importance.