a key instrument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key instrument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an essential tool or method that plays a significant role in achieving a particular goal or outcome. Example: "The new software has become a key instrument in streamlining our workflow and improving productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Culture, Hall and his colleagues recognised, was a key instrument of political and social control.

The Guardian

For both regimes, making people anonymous in death was a key instrument of state terror.

The New Yorker

But these rules are a key instrument in tax dodging in developing countries.

The Guardian

"Enforced disappearance has become a key instrument of state policy in Egypt," said Amnesty's Middle East and North Africa director Philip Luther.

The Guardian

Given tight government finances, monetary policy remains a key instrument for supporting demand," adding, "even though monetary stimulus may not always be sufficient and carries its own risks".

The New York Times

Mr Chalabi allegedly was a key instrument for the hawks.Why given all its other problems would the Bush administration embrace such a controversial figure?

The Economist

For many Kenyan journalists like Juma, who has 19,000 Facebook followers, social media has become a key instrument in their reporting arsenal, allowing them to bypass traditional outlets and connect directly with readers.

The Guardian

The report called forced disappearances, where the victim vanishes into a large security facility and is denied contact with their family or legal representation, "a key instrument of state policy in Egypt".

The Guardian

In the government's antitrust suit, the Windows A.P.I.'s were portrayed as a key instrument of the company's control of the industry -- enabling Microsoft to withhold or delay rivals' access to that technology.

The New York Times

Thus, from the Shang dynasty oracle bones to the products of the modern printing press, culture in the form of written works has been a key instrument in the development of political thought and a tool of governance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These arrangements have become a key instrument in housing policy.

Sociologie du Travail

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a key instrument", ensure the context clearly indicates the purpose or function of the instrument being described. For example, specify what it is instrumental in achieving.

Common error

Avoid using "a key instrument" when describing something of only minor significance. Reserve it for elements that genuinely play a crucial role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key instrument" functions as a noun phrase, identifying something essential or vital for a particular purpose. Ludwig AI shows its function in various contexts like "Culture, Hall and his colleagues recognised, was a key instrument of political and social control."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key instrument" is a noun phrase used to emphasize the importance of something essential for achieving a particular goal. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various reputable sources, especially in science, news, and business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly shows what the instrument is instrumental in achieving. While alternatives like "an essential tool" or "a crucial component" exist, "a key instrument" emphasizes a more formal and critical role.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an essential tool

Changes "key instrument" to a more generic phrase emphasizing necessity.

a crucial component

Replaces "instrument" with "component", highlighting the importance of being a part of a larger system.

a vital mechanism

Substitutes "instrument" with "mechanism", focusing on the process or system it enables.

a fundamental element

Emphasizes the basic and necessary nature of the instrument.

a primary means

Focuses on the function as a method to achieve a specific outcome.

an important factor

Shifts the focus to its role as a contributing element.

a significant resource

Highlights the value and availability of the instrument.

a critical asset

Emphasizes the value and advantage the instrument provides.

a central method

Focuses on the use of a particular approach.

a valuable asset

Highlights the worth and usefulness of the instrument.

FAQs

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

Use "a key instrument" to describe something essential for achieving a goal. For example: "Data analysis is "a key instrument" in understanding customer behavior."

What are some alternatives to "a key instrument"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "an essential tool", "a crucial component", or "a vital mechanism".

Is it appropriate to use "a key instrument" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a key instrument" may sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Consider using simpler alternatives in those contexts.

What's the difference between "a key instrument" and "a useful tool"?

"A key instrument" implies a higher degree of necessity and importance than "a useful tool". "A key instrument" is essential, while "a useful tool" is simply helpful.