a key member

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "a key member" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this expression when you want to refer to an important or influential person in a group or organization. For example, "Andy has been a key member of our team since he joined three years ago."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

A key member of my household does not take the view that books furnish a room.

The Guardian - Opinion

Rolls-Royce is a key member.

The Guardian - Business

Vera Zakharov is a key member.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He is a key member of the team".

Independent

The wicketkeeper is a key member of the fielding side.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Akram remains, however, a key member of the side.

The Guardian - Sport

By 2005, she was a key member of the team.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: "Newbs has been a key member of the squad.

BBC

"Marius has been a key member of the team".

BBC

Most ominously, Princeton professor Robert P. George is a key member of Witherspoon.

Huffington Post

She is also a key member of the Women for de Blasio committee.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a key member", ensure the context clearly establishes the group or team to which the person belongs. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the statement's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a key member" when the person's contribution is minimal or easily replaceable. Overusing the phrase dilutes its significance and can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

A key member functions as a noun phrase, identifying an individual of significant importance within a group or organization. The phrase highlights the person's role as being crucial to the entity's success or operation. As indicated by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a key member" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to denote an individual's significance within a group or organization. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and broad applicability. It carries a neutral to professional tone and is commonly found in news, media, scientific, and business contexts. While alternatives such as "an essential contributor" or "a vital participant" exist, "a key member" effectively conveys the importance and value of the individual's role. When using this phrase, ensure the context clarifies the group affiliation to avoid ambiguity and maintain credibility by reserving it for truly impactful individuals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an essential contributor

Highlights the contribution aspect more explicitly than simply being a member.

a vital participant

Emphasizes the active role and necessity of their involvement.

an important figure

Focuses on the person's significance and influence within the group.

a crucial component

Draws an analogy to a machine, highlighting the person's integral role.

a significant player

Implies active involvement and influence, often in a competitive setting.

an integral part

Stresses the inseparability and necessity of the member.

a central figure

Highlights the prominence and importance of the person.

a cornerstone member

Emphasizes the foundational role and stability the member provides.

a valued asset

Focuses on the positive contribution and worth of the member.

an indispensable person

Stresses the irreplaceability of the member.

FAQs

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

You can use "a key member" to describe someone vital to a team or organization. For instance, "She is "a key member" of the marketing department".

What are some alternatives to "a key member"?

Consider using alternatives like "an essential contributor", "a vital participant", or "an important figure" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "key member" or "core member"?

Both "key member" and "a core member" are acceptable, but "key member" emphasizes importance, while "core member" suggests fundamental or central involvement.

What does it mean when someone is described as "a key member"?

It means that the person is considered essential and highly valued within their group, team, or organization, and their contributions are significant.