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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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a important role

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a important role" is not grammatically correct in written English.
It should be written as "an important role." This correction follows the rule of using "an" before words that start with a vowel sound. Example: "The teacher plays an important role in shaping students' minds."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

The study on the life history patterns of insects with forensic importance is essential and plays a important role in forensic entomology field for PMI determination (Keshavarzi et al. 2015c).

Bats play a important role in keeping insects like mosquitoes under control.

News & Media

The New York Times

They are visiting places which played a important role in the invasion.

News & Media

BBC

On the other hand, several parameters such as clone selection, codon optimization, fusion partners and culture conditions play a important role in obtaining high yields of protein.

Though Ca2+ played a important role in the pathway of insulin exocytosis, this data confirmed amolopin stimulated insulin secretion not via Ca2+ influx.

The liquid phase filled in the pores and densified bricks body, which also play a important role in preventing heavy metals from releasing.

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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Forests play an important an important role in climate change.

News & Media

The Guardian

Government has a role, and an important role.

News & Media

The New York Times

Psychology plays an important role.

News & Media

The New York Times

Politics play an important role.

News & Media

The New York Times

Instinct plays an important role, she said.

News & Media

The New York Times
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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use the correct article ("a" or "an") based on the sound of the following word. Since "important" starts with a vowel sound, use "an" instead of "a". The correct phrase is "an important role".

Common error

Avoid using "a" before words that begin with a vowel sound. This error can make your writing seem unprofessional. Proofread your work to ensure you're using "a" or "an" correctly.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

60%

Authority and reliability

1.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a important role" functions as a noun phrase intended to describe the significance or part that someone or something plays. However, it is grammatically incorrect, as noted by Ludwig AI, due to the incorrect article usage. It should be an important role.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a important role" is grammatically incorrect and should be corrected to "an important role". As Ludwig AI points out, the mistake lies in the article usage; "an" should precede words starting with a vowel sound. While the phrase aims to emphasize significance, its incorrect form detracts from its effectiveness. Remember to always proofread your work for proper article usage to maintain clarity and professionalism. Consider alternatives such as "a significant role" or "a crucial role" for varied expression.

FAQs

What is the correct way to say "a important role"?

The correct phrase is "an important role". Use "an" before words that begin with a vowel sound.

Can I use "a significant role" instead of "a important role"?

While "a significant role" is a valid phrase, "a important role" is grammatically incorrect. The proper phrasing would be "an important role".

What are some phrases similar to "a important role" that I can use?

You can use phrases like "a crucial role", "a vital role", or "a key role" instead, but always remember to use "an" before "important".

Why is "a important role" considered grammatically incorrect?

The article "a" is used before words that begin with a consonant sound, while "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound. Since "important" begins with a vowel sound, the correct article is "an", making "an important role" the grammatically correct choice.

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Source & Trust

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Authority and reliability

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Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: