a key cog

USAGE SUMMARY

"a key cog" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is usually used in the context of explaining how a particular thing or person is integral to the larger system. For example, "The CEO was a key cog in the company's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

He's a key cog in a wheel, he informs us, which makes no sense at all.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Sedrick Ellis, a key cog in the Saints' run defense, is out, too.

The New York Times

But his dedication to the game, work ethic and performance have made him a key cog in Colorado's rebuilding effort.

The New York Times - Sports

Five Republican candidates will attend a retreat held by Freedom Partners, a key cog in the political network of the Koch brothers.

The Guardian

"All I know is that I am a two-time Pro Bowler and a key cog in a defense that is in the A.F.C. championship game".

The New York Times - Sports

But actually food is a key cog in the wheels that keep the biggest system going: it makes us happy, it gives us work, it shapes the planet.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

He is St. John's leading rebounder (5.7 a game), its third-leading scorer (10.7) and a key defensive cog.

The New York Times - Sports

Bogut was a key passing cog in the Warriors' championship-winning and record-breaking system and the Mavericks plan to utilise him in a similar way.

The Guardian - Sport

"The guys are very hard-working and don't really worry about individual accolades," nods Aaron Mauger, the All Black centre who has ­reinvented himself as a key midfield cog for the Tigers.

The Guardian - Sport

The senior forward Norman Richardson, so often the key cog in Hofstra's offense, was a big part of the problem today.

The New York Times - Sports

Cherry has been the key cog on the court for Montana this season.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a key cog" to emphasize the essential nature of something or someone within a larger system or organization. It's most effective when the system's function is already understood by the audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a key cog" when the larger system is unclear or undefined. Without context, the phrase loses its impact and can confuse readers. Clearly establish the system you're referring to before highlighting the key component.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key cog" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies an element or individual as fundamentally important within a larger system. Ludwig AI states the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key cog" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to highlight the essential role of a person or thing within a system. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and appropriateness in written English. It finds frequent use in news and media, with less prevalence in scientific or formal business writing. Related phrases include "an essential component" and "a vital element". When using the phrase, ensure the context of the system is clear to your audience. While the phrase is generally acceptable, considering alternatives can refine your writing to suit the specific context and tone. The phrase emphasizes not just importance but also indispensability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an essential component

Replaces "cog" with a broader term for a necessary part.

a vital element

Substitutes "key" and "cog" with synonyms emphasizing importance.

an integral part

Emphasizes the necessity of the element to the whole.

a crucial factor

Highlights the importance of the element in determining an outcome.

a central figure

Focuses on a person's role as being fundamentally important.

a critical aspect

Highlights the importance of the element to the topic at hand.

an important contributor

Shifts focus to the element's role in providing benefit.

a cornerstone

Implies that the element is a primary foundation.

a lynchpin

Highlights the element's capability of holding things together.

a driving force

Emphasizes the element's role in propelling the system forward.

FAQs

How can I use "a key cog" in a sentence?

You can use "a key cog" to describe something or someone essential to a system or process. For example, "The new software is "a key cog" in our data analysis workflow".

What are some alternatives to using "a key cog"?

Alternatives include "an essential component", "a vital element", or "an integral part". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a key cog" in formal writing?

Yes, "a key cog" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in contexts where you want to emphasize the critical role of a particular element within a larger framework. However, consider alternatives like "a crucial factor" if a more sophisticated tone is desired.

What does "a key cog" imply about the element being described?

Using "a key cog" implies that the element is not only important but also indispensable to the functioning of the overall system. Removing it would significantly impair or halt the system's operation. In fact, it highlights the role of "a central figure" in the whole process.