a contributing factor is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a contributing factor is" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing elements that play a role in a particular outcome or situation. Example: "In the study, it was found that a contributing factor is the lack of access to education in rural areas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

A contributing factor is the rise of the yuan against the dollar, the denominating currency for gemstone prices.A second force is economic insecurity.

The Economist

The latest Michigan surveys give him a marginal lead over Gov. George W. Bush of Texas, and the pollsters assert that a contributing factor is that the Gore spots emphasizing the candidate's stands on specific issues have played better than Republican commercials questioning Mr. Gore's integrity.

The New York Times

A contributing factor is, we believe, the imprecise estimation terminology in use.

Information and Software Technology

Carlos Zarco, director of Oxfam Mexico, told me that a contributing factor is that some elements of Mexican civil society, tired of feuding with its government, decided to engage this time.

Huffington Post

9 A contributing factor is the complex clinical picture, with sometimes very subtle symptoms, at disease onset.

Application of Clinical Genetics

The absence of tobacco smoke as a contributing factor is surprising but may reflect the reducing rates of tobacco use in the community.

BMC Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

A contributing factor was the inclusion in the accounts of the loss-making smaller stores, which were closed last year.

The Guardian - Business

Some speculated that a contributing factor was Mr. Marimow's discomfort with the company's efforts to raise profit margins.

The New York Times

A contributing factor was the diagramed deal on which one would expect East-West to bid and make four spades.

The New York Times - Arts

A contributing factor was the weak dollar, which led investors to diversify into precious metals.

The Economist

A contributing factor was no doubt Justice Kennedy's role in Planned Parenthood v. Casey, which had reaffirmed the right to abortion the previous year.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a contributing factor is", ensure that you clearly define what it contributes to. Be specific about the outcome or situation being influenced.

Common error

Avoid using "a contributing factor is" without clearly specifying its effect or relevance to the topic. Provide context and evidence to support the claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a contributing factor is" serves as a grammatical device to introduce an element that influences a particular situation or outcome. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability, highlighting its role in expressing causal relationships, as seen in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

48%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a contributing factor is" is a versatile phrase used to introduce elements that influence an outcome, with Ludwig AI confirming its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. Predominantly found in news, media, and scientific contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral tone suitable for various communication styles. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: always specify what the contributing factor influences to avoid vagueness. Consider using alternatives like "a reason is" or "an element is" for nuanced expressions. Remember that while "a" denotes one of several factors, "the" suggests it's the primary or sole factor. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "a contributing factor is" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a factor is

Omission of "contributing" makes it a general factor, potentially less significant.

a reason is

Substitutes "factor" with "reason", focusing on causation.

an element is

Replaces "factor" with "element", highlighting a component rather than a cause.

a cause is

Changes from a contributing aspect to a direct cause.

a determinant is

Indicates a decisive factor, stronger than a contributing one.

an influence is

Shifts focus to the power to affect something.

a component is

Emphasizes that something is part of a larger whole.

a driver is

Suggests a force that propels or initiates something.

a part is

Highlights that something is a piece of a larger entity.

one aspect is

Highlights only one specific facet of something.

FAQs

How can I use "a contributing factor is" in a sentence?

Use "a contributing factor is" to introduce an element that plays a role in a particular situation or outcome. For example, "A contributing factor is the lack of access to education".

What can I say instead of "a contributing factor is"?

You can use alternatives like "a reason is", "an element is", or "a cause is" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "the contributing factor is" instead of "a contributing factor is"?

While both can be grammatically correct, "a contributing factor is" is used when introducing one of several possible factors. "The contributing factor is" implies it's the only or primary factor.

What's the difference between "a contributing factor is" and "the main reason is"?

"A contributing factor is" suggests one of multiple influences, while "the main reason is" indicates the primary cause or explanation.