a key factor.

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key factor." is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an important element or consideration in a particular context or situation. Example: "In determining the success of the project, time management was identified as a key factor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's a key factor.

The New Yorker

A key factor is marketisation.

The Guardian

Clearly, suspense is a key factor.

The New York Times

Choice is a key factor.

The Washington Post

Consistency is a key factor.

Nature

A key factor is money.

The Washington Post

"I think cost is a key factor.

The Guardian

But economics is also a key factor.

The New York Times

The sports stars were a key factor.

The Guardian - Opinion

Price will be a key factor.

The Guardian - Business

Language ability is a key factor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a key factor" to introduce an element that significantly influences a situation or outcome. Be clear about what "a key factor" refers to and its specific impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a key factor" as a vague statement. Always provide concrete details about what the factor is and how it affects the situation. Saying 'Communication is a key factor' is less effective than 'Consistent communication between teams is a key factor in ensuring project deadlines are met'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key factor" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an appositive. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct. It identifies and highlights an element of significant importance within a given context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key factor" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase to highlight an important element or consideration in various situations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It is most frequently found in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it is followed by specific details to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "a crucial element" or "an important consideration" can be used for variety. Remember, the phrase should clearly identify the factor and its impact to be most effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crucial element

Replaces 'factor' with 'element', emphasizing importance.

a vital component

Substitutes 'factor' with 'component', highlighting the essential nature of the element.

an important consideration

Replaces 'factor' with 'consideration', focusing on the aspect of deliberation.

a significant aspect

Changes 'factor' to 'aspect', highlighting a particular feature or part.

a primary reason

Focuses on causality, replacing 'factor' with 'reason'.

a central point

Emphasizes the core or main idea, swapping 'factor' for 'point'.

a major influence

Highlights the impact or effect, changing 'factor' to 'influence'.

a critical variable

Uses 'variable' instead of 'factor', suitable in analytical or scientific contexts.

a decisive element

Replaces 'key' with 'decisive', underlining the element's role in determining an outcome.

an essential ingredient

Changes 'factor' to 'ingredient', implying that the element is a necessary part of a whole.

FAQs

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

Use "a key factor" to highlight something crucial for a specific outcome. For example, "Dedication is "a key factor" in achieving success".

What can I say instead of "a key factor"?

You can use alternatives like "a crucial element", "a vital component", or "an important consideration" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "key important factor" instead of "a key factor"?

Yes, using "key important factor" is redundant. The word "key" already implies importance, so using both is unnecessary. Stick to using ""a key factor"" for clarity.

What is the difference between "a key factor" and "the key factor"?

"A key factor" implies that there are multiple important factors, while "the key factor" suggests that it is the single most important factor above all others. Choose the phrasing that accurately reflects the context.