a key role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an important or significant position or function that someone or something plays in a particular context or situation. Example: "In the success of the project, the team leader played a key role in coordinating efforts and ensuring effective communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Don't councils have a key role?

BBC

They nonetheless play a key role.

The Economist

Architecture played a key role.

The Guardian - Arts

Government has a key role.

The Guardian

"Everybody plays a key role.

The New York Times - Sports

Defectors play a key role.

The New York Times

Princetonians played a key role.

Princeton University

The Health Ministry has played a key role.

Independent

The Chevrolet Volt will play a key role.

The New York Times

The refrigerator plays a key role.

The New York Times

Palestinians also have a key role here.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's contribution, use "a key role" to highlight their significant involvement and impact on the outcome.

Common error

While "a key role" is useful, avoid using it repeatedly in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language with synonyms like "central part" or "pivotal function" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key role" functions as a noun phrase that typically describes a significant or essential function performed by someone or something. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase is used to highlight the importance of a person, entity, or factor within a given context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

17%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key role" is a versatile and frequently used phrase to denote significance and importance. As Ludwig AI points out, its grammatical structure is correct, and it is widely accepted in both formal and informal contexts. The phrase is predominantly found in "News & Media", "Academia", and "Science", signifying its relevance across diverse fields. When employing "a key role", consider its impact and ensure it appropriately highlights the contribution you intend to emphasize. While effective, remember to vary your language to avoid repetition and maintain the freshness of your writing. Alternatives like "a central part" or "a pivotal function" can provide nuanced options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a central part

Emphasizes the importance of being at the center of an activity or event.

a pivotal function

Highlights the turning point or crucial aspect of the role.

an important position

Focuses on the level of significance and responsibility.

a vital contribution

Stresses the necessity and impact of the contribution.

a crucial aspect

Points out that something is extremely important because everything else depends on it.

a major factor

Highlights the considerable influence of something in achieving a result.

a significant influence

Focuses on the power to affect someone or something.

a leading voice

Highlights someone who expresses opinions and influences others.

a driving force

Emphasizes the impetus behind an activity or project.

an integral element

Stresses that something is essential or fundamental.

FAQs

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

Use "a key role" to emphasize the importance of someone or something in a particular context. For example, "Technology played "a key role" in the project's success".

What are some alternatives to "a key role"?

You can use alternatives such as "a central part", "a pivotal function", or "an important position" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "key role" or "important role"?

"Key role" and "important role" are often interchangeable, but "key role" suggests something is essential or crucial, whereas "important role" simply indicates significance. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Which prepositions commonly follow "a key role"?

The preposition "in" commonly follows "a key role", as in "They played "a key role" in the negotiations". You might also see "a key role" used without a preposition, such as "Their support was "a key role"".