Underlying factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Underlying factor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a fundamental cause or reason that influences a situation or outcome. Example: "The underlying factor contributing to the team's success is their strong communication skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As a clinician, however, he may have missed an underlying factor.

The New York Times

Dilation of the blood vessels (vasodilation) is the underlying factor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A more basic underlying factor was the generally low level of economic development.

Britannica

Morphodynamic changes are also a basic underlying factor.

Geomorphology

A: I think the underlying factor is that the status quo is not sustainable and it's not acceptable.

The New York Times - Health

The main underlying factor for 2010 and this election, President Obama's approval rating, is at the same 47% it's been since late February.

The Guardian - Opinion

When the same genetic approaches were applied to neurological disorders, no common underlying factor was evident.

Duke University

One of them is more deeply validating and updating the assumptions of each underlying factor.

European Journal of Futures Research

(Assuming one underlying factor α = 0.750).

BMC Medical Education

Second, do the instruments reflect a common underlying factor?

Behavior Genetics

The underlying factor is invariably low income.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "underlying factor", ensure it clearly connects to the effect or outcome you're describing. Provide sufficient context to illustrate the relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "underlying factor" when the factor is already apparent or well-known. Instead, aim to reveal a less obvious, yet significant, cause.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underlying factor" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a foundational element contributing to a specific situation or outcome. Examples from Ludwig show it used to pinpoint causes in diverse contexts, like economic developments and health conditions. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "underlying factor" is a frequently employed noun phrase used to denote a fundamental cause or reason influencing a particular situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its grammatical correctness and broad applicability make it suitable for diverse contexts. Analysis of Ludwig's examples reveals its prevalence in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources, reflecting its role in analytical and explanatory discourse. While alternatives like "root cause" and "primary driver" exist, "underlying factor" maintains its significance in professional and academic communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

underlying cause

Is more specific in establishing a relationship of causation.

root cause

Focuses specifically on the origin of a problem or issue.

fundamental reason

Emphasizes the basic and essential nature of the reason.

primary driver

Highlights the element that propels or strongly influences an outcome.

key determinant

Suggests a factor that decisively affects or controls a result.

driving force

Suggests an influence that compels a particular behavior.

basic element

Refers to a foundational component that is critical.

core component

Indicates an integral part at the center of something.

central aspect

Emphasizes that the factor is a main feature or consideration.

mainspring

Implies the chief motive or activating principle.

FAQs

How can I use "underlying factor" in a sentence?

You can use "underlying factor" to describe a fundamental cause or reason. For example, "Low income is often the "underlying factor" in resource-related disasters."

What are some alternatives to "underlying factor"?

Alternatives include "root cause", "fundamental reason", or "primary driver", depending on the context.

What's the difference between "underlying factor" and "cause"?

"Underlying factor" suggests a less obvious or more fundamental reason, whereas "cause" is a more general term for something that produces an effect. The "underlying factor" may not always be immediately apparent.

Is it redundant to say "basic underlying factor"?

While not strictly incorrect, "basic underlying factor" can be seen as somewhat redundant, as "underlying" already implies a fundamental level. Consider using just ""underlying factor"" or "fundamental reason" for conciseness.