a key force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an important or influential element in a particular context, such as in discussions about social movements, economic factors, or organizational dynamics. Example: "Education is a key force in shaping the future of our society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

With the support of the government, Monsanto is a key force in American agriculture.

The Guardian - Opinion

In a statement yesterday, Mr. Welch praised Mr. Wright as a "key force in guiding the company's future growth".

The New York Times

India, the world's third largest emitter of greenhouse gases, has emerged as a key force in the negotiations.

The Guardian

In recent decades that aversion to growth has been a key force in defeating several measures in the county.

The New York Times

Backed by the power of the Moscovite princes, this extraordinary missionary movement was to become a key force in the unification of Russia.

The New York Times - Travel

Economic inequality is indeed a key force in marginalising women, but it's not because we're having to remortgage a mansion to pay for a cruise.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

They hung around Saturday thanks to a key forced fumble by defensive lineman Derrick Hill, who jarred the ball loose from Thomas and pounced on it in the end zone to cut the Oregon lead to 15-13 early in the third quarter.

The New York Times - Sports

Despite the establishment of democratic liberties, the armed forces remained a key power in Paraguay.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Getting there requires relevant national measures that are easily accessible for business, which is considered a key transformative force with its innovation power.

The International Journal of Management Education

Manbij, located 40 kilometres from the Turkish border, is controlled by Kurdish forces, viewed by the US as a key ground force in the fight with the Islamic State.

Huffington Post

Colour can be a key revitalising force too.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a key force", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being influenced or affected. Provide specific details to strengthen the statement and avoid vagueness.

Common error

Avoid using "a key force" to describe something that has only a minor impact. Reserve this phrase for elements that genuinely have a substantial influence, and specify the extent of that influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key force" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies something significant and influential. Ludwig AI confirms the acceptability of this phrase, supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a key force" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to highlight the significance or influence of something. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its acceptability and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While the phrase is versatile, it's essential to ensure its usage accurately reflects the magnitude of the subject's impact. Alternatives such as "a major influence" or "a primary driver" can be used to subtly adjust the nuance. Remember to be specific about what is being influenced when employing this phrase for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major influence

Changes the noun from "force" to "influence", emphasizing the impact rather than the power.

a primary driver

Replaces "force" with "driver", suggesting the phrase refers to something that propels or motivates.

an important factor

Substitutes "force" with "factor", focusing on the significance of something in contributing to a result.

a crucial element

Replaces "force" with "element", highlighting the necessity of something as part of a whole.

a significant player

Shifts the focus to an active participant, replacing "force" with "player" to denote agency.

a leading influence

Combines "leading" and "influence" to emphasize the guiding or directing power of something.

a central figure

Focuses on a person as the main point of attention, replacing "force" with "figure".

a vital component

Emphasizes the necessity and integration of something within a larger system.

a principal agent

Highlights the active role of something in causing an effect or change.

a cornerstone of

Indicates that something is fundamental and essential, like a foundation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a key force" to describe something that significantly influences a situation, such as "Technology is "a key force" in modern education".

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

Some alternatives include "a major influence", "a primary driver", or "an important factor", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a key force" or "an important factor"?

Both "a key force" and "an important factor" are correct, but "a key force" often implies a more active and powerful influence than "an important factor".

What's the difference between "a key force" and "a dominant force"?

"A key force" suggests something is important and influential, while "a dominant force" suggests something has overwhelming power or control.