a key role in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key role in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an important function or responsibility that a person, organization, or other entity has in a larger activity or event. For example: "The country played a key role in organizing the regional summit."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Administrators play a key role in that.

The Guardian - Opinion

Pensions have always played a key role in major privatisations.

The Guardian - Business

Queensland plays a key role in every federal election.

The Guardian

He has played a key role in each game.

The New York Times - Sports

Williams had a key role in the first three.

The Guardian - Sport

It plays a key role in causing the disease.

The New York Times - Science

The U.S. Marines played a key role in Jeff's life.

The New York Times

Culture can play a key role in spurring development".

The Guardian

Governments will play a key role in this.

The Guardian

Defense played a key role in Stephens' recruitment.

Princeton University

marine geology may play a key role in some cases.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a key role in", ensure the sentence clearly indicates what the role contributes to. Provide specific details about the impact or significance of the role to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a key role in" without specifying how the role is key. For example, instead of "Technology plays a key role in education", specify: "Technology plays a key role in enhancing student engagement through interactive learning tools."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key role in" functions as a modifier within a sentence, highlighting the significance of someone or something in relation to a specific activity, process, or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key role in" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to emphasize the importance of a person, thing, or concept within a particular context. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable. Its versatility makes it suitable for various registers, from academic and scientific writing to news articles and business reports. When using this phrase, make sure to clearly specify the nature and impact of the role being described for maximum clarity. Alternatives such as ""a central part in"" or ""a major factor in"" can be used to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a central part in

Replaces "key role" with "central part", emphasizing importance but with a different nuance.

a major factor in

Substitutes "key role" with "major factor", highlighting influence rather than direct participation.

an important function in

Focuses on the activity or purpose fulfilled, rather than the overall significance.

a critical component of

Emphasizes that the subject is a necessary element for something else to work.

a vital element in

Similar to "critical component", but implies essentiality for life or success.

a significant influence on

Shifts the focus to the power to affect something, rather than direct involvement.

a prominent position in

Highlights the visibility and importance of the role.

a leading voice in

Suggests influence and authority, particularly in discussions or movements.

instrumental to

Implies the subject was crucial in achieving a particular outcome.

a cornerstone of

Highlights that the subject is fundamental and essential for the structure or success of something.

FAQs

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

Use "a key role in" to describe someone or something that is very important or influential in a particular situation or process. For example: "She played "a key role in" the success of the project."

What are some alternatives to "a key role in"?

You can use alternatives like "a central part in", "a major factor in", or "an important function in" depending on the context.

What makes a role "key"?

A "key" role implies that the person or thing is essential, critical, or highly influential in achieving a particular outcome or maintaining a certain state. It suggests that without this role, success would be significantly compromised.

Is it better to say "a key role in" or "an important role in"?

While both phrases are acceptable, "a key role in" suggests a higher level of importance or influence than "an important role in". Use "a key role in" when you want to emphasize the critical nature of the role.