a central factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a central factor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an important or primary element that significantly influences a situation or outcome. Example: "In the success of any project, effective communication is a central factor that cannot be overlooked."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This was a central factor in the formation of a centralized political system, and the construction of the Great Wall is evidence of this historical process.

International Journal of Anthropology and Ethnology

Kosovo was a pretext, not a central factor, he says.

The New York Times

Bruni: Will Trump's conduct be a central factor?

The New York Times

Coventry city council is very cooperative in doing that, which is a central factor.

The Guardian - Business

Contingent work too was a central factor in increasing inequality throughout the OECD.

The Guardian - Tech

Additionally, this article argues that soft law was a central factor in creating employment policies.

Columbia University

He said a central factor was Iran's insistence that Iraq's Sunnis, and their backers in Saudi Arabia, not be empowered.

The Guardian

The ability to communicate emotion amidst the physicality was a central factor in choosing performers, Mr. James said later.

The New York Times

Other cities, including Chicago, Denver and Baltimore, have made downtown housing a central factor in redevelopment strategies.

The New York Times

A central factor is the high supply of nutrients from agricultural runoff and wastewater.

The New York Times

The requirement of equal labor-management representation is a central factor in the congressional formula to prevent such abuse.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a central factor", ensure that the context clearly establishes its importance in relation to the topic. Avoid vague statements and provide specific details to support its significance.

Common error

Avoid presenting secondary influences as "a central factor". Accurately assess and represent the true significance of each contributing element to maintain credibility and avoid misleading your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a central factor" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies something as a primary or essential element contributing to a specific outcome or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a central factor" is a commonly used phrase that pinpoints a key element influencing a situation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Its frequent appearance across news, scientific, and academic sources highlights its versatility and importance. When using this phrase, ensure that the element genuinely holds a primary role and support its significance with specific details. Remember that while effective communication relies on precise language, be careful of overstating the importance of secondary factors by mislabeling them as "a central factor". Exploring alternatives like "a key element" or "a crucial component" can also enhance clarity and accuracy in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a key element

Focuses on the essential nature of the element, similar to a central factor.

a crucial component

Highlights the necessity and integral role of the component.

a primary driver

Emphasizes the causal role of the factor in influencing an outcome.

a major influence

Indicates a significant effect on something.

a significant aspect

Points to the importance of the aspect being considered.

a critical element

Stresses the importance and necessity of the element.

a vital ingredient

Implies that the factor is essential for the success of something.

a fundamental reason

Focuses on the underlying cause or basis.

a principal cause

Highlights the factor as the main reason for something.

a core consideration

Emphasizes the importance of this factor in decision making.

FAQs

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

Use "a central factor" to highlight a key element that significantly influences a situation. For example, "Effective communication is "a central factor" in successful teamwork".

What are some alternatives to saying "a central factor"?

You can use alternatives like "a key element", "a crucial component", or "a primary driver" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "a central factor"?

While the phrase is commonly used, ensure that the factor you are describing truly holds a primary role. Overusing it for less significant elements can dilute its impact. Consider if alternatives like "an important aspect" might be more appropriate.

What makes "a central factor" different from "an important factor"?

"A central factor" suggests a more critical and fundamental role than "an important factor". Use "a central factor" when the element is indispensable to the outcome, rather than merely contributing to it.