a common factor

USAGE SUMMARY

"a common factor" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a trait, characteristic, element, or quality shared by two or more things. For example, "One common factor among successful entrepreneurs is their ability to take calculated risks."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A desire to assert control is a common factor among victims of eating disorders.

The New York Times - Health

There is a common factor running through the success stories: patient support.

The Guardian

Eventually, John and his partner were both unfaithful – a common factor in divorce at any age.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Maybe the two have a common factor, but we can't put our finger on it.

The New Yorker

Dr. Liederbach discovered that although A.C.L. tears were infrequent among dancers, a common factor emerged when they did occur.

The New York Times - Arts

B6 THE CAPITAL'S CASES -- In Washington, the Brentwood mail complex has been a common factor in the confirmed anthrax cases.

The New York Times

A common factor underpinning substance misuse can be family issues and I am used to individuals being guarded and defensive.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Long underwear is a common factor, even if it is worn less understandably by devout polygamists in the desert than by freezing mountaineers.

The New York Times - Books

Around half of suspects and victims in shooting incidents are linked to gangs, with conflicts in the drugs trade a common factor.

The Guardian

The internet is also a common factor, functioning as a conversation-killer, a source of hotel porn, or a means of pursuing our darkest, illegal desires.

The Guardian

"I believe every large UK lender has at least one non-core portfolio they are running down, and commercial property lending is typically a common factor".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a common factor", ensure you clearly articulate what items or situations share this factor to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "Age is a common factor", specify "Age is a common factor in the development of certain diseases".

Common error

Avoid using "a common factor" as a vague placeholder without providing specific details. For instance, don't just state "There's a common factor", but elaborate on what that factor is and its significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common factor" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a shared element, trait, or cause among multiple items or situations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a common factor" is a versatile and widely used phrase that highlights shared elements or influences across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Its neutral to professional register makes it appropriate for a range of writing styles, from news articles to scientific papers. When using this phrase, clarity and specificity are key; avoid vagueness by clearly articulating what the shared factor is and its significance. Remember that while alternatives like "a shared attribute" and "a mutual element" exist, "a common factor" remains a reliable and effective choice in many situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a shared attribute

This alternative emphasizes a characteristic or feature that is possessed jointly.

a mutual element

This highlights a component or aspect that is present in both or all situations.

a connecting link

This phrase suggests a relationship or bond that unites different entities.

a unifying characteristic

This emphasizes a feature that brings things together or makes them similar.

an underlying similarity

This points to a resemblance or likeness that may not be immediately obvious.

a prevalent theme

This highlights a recurring idea or motif that appears in multiple instances.

a recurring motif

Similar to 'prevalent theme', this emphasizes a repeated pattern or design.

a shared denominator

This implies a common ground or basis for agreement or understanding.

a correlating aspect

This phrase suggests an element that has relationship or connection between two or more things.

a general trend

This refers to a widespread pattern or direction observed across multiple cases.

FAQs

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

You can use "a common factor" to highlight a shared element between two or more things. For example, "Lack of sleep is "a common factor" in many accidents".

What are some alternatives to "a common factor"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a shared attribute", "a mutual element", or "a connecting link".

Is it more appropriate to say "common factors" or "a common factor"?

Use "a common factor" when referring to a single shared element. Use "common factors" when discussing multiple shared elements. For example, "Stress and poor diet are common factors in heart disease".

In academic writing, is "a common factor" considered formal enough?

Yes, "a common factor" is suitable for academic writing. It is a clear and concise way to indicate a shared element or influence. More formal alternatives might include "an underlying similarity" or "a unifying characteristic", but "a common factor" remains acceptable.