a key thing in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key thing in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the importance of a particular element or aspect within a specific context or situation. Example: "Communication is a key thing in building strong relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"Patience is always a key thing in any major championship," Westwood said.

The Guardian - Sport

"A key thing in the design," Dr. Chirikjian said, "is that the stator does not envelop the rotor.

The New York Times - Tech

Humility is a key thing in football and this will make us stronger".

BBC

Humility is a key thing in following the draft.

Huffington Post

It's such a key thing in terms of what Coulson's role becomes later in the movies with each of these different characters that he's trying to assemble.

Los Angeles Times

Whether it happens or not, a key thing in life to remember is... always challenge yourself... always push and climb a littler higher... and always have time for play!

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

As was mentioned, a key thing that came up in our book is people saying, you know, I made it all the way through grad school and well into my career, and I still never had anyone work with me on translational research.

Cornell University

"A key thing we must continue in Part 2 of welfare reform is that we must advocate for this group that their participation in this plan will result in a level of self-sufficiency," Ms. Eggleston said, "and that should count for something".

The New York Times

"That is a key thing, young players are developing in to that whole approach to football and we can provide that.

BBC

Knowing that the service is up and running well is a key thing that PAR#17 looks for in those reports.

Journal of Cloud Computing

The key thing in a dispute like this, in public relation terms, is to sound more reasonable than your opponent, and Crow did this well.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a key thing in", ensure the context clearly establishes what 'thing' refers to. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the sentence's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a key thing in" in overly simplistic statements. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, use direct and concise language to express key points.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key thing in" functions as a modifier, emphasizing the importance of a specific element or consideration within a broader context. It is used to highlight something essential. Ludwig examples confirm this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

16.66%

Academia

16.66%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key thing in" is a phrase used to emphasize the importance of a specific element within a given context. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While suitable for various contexts, from news to general discussions, consider using more formal synonyms like "essential aspect of" in academic or professional settings. To enhance clarity and avoid repetition, be mindful of the context and consider alternative phrasing when possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an essential aspect of

Replaces 'thing' with 'aspect', which provides a more formal and specific nuance.

a crucial element in

Substitutes 'key thing' with 'crucial element', highlighting necessity.

a significant factor in

Emphasizes the influence something has, changing 'thing' to 'factor'.

a vital component of

Focuses on the necessary part something plays, which alters sentence structure slightly.

an important consideration for

Shifts focus to the act of considering something, instead of just stating it's a key thing.

a primary requirement for

Highlights the necessity as a requirement, altering sentence construction.

a central point in

Focuses on something being a focal idea instead of just important.

a cornerstone of

Emphasizes foundation and stability that something provides.

fundamentally important to

Emphasizes that something is essential at a foundational level. Slightly changes the tone and sentence structure.

indispensable for

Highlights that something is absolutely necessary.

FAQs

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

Use "a key thing in" to emphasize an essential element within a specific context. For example, "Patience is "a key thing in" any major championship."

What's a more formal alternative to "a key thing in"?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives such as "an essential aspect of", or "a crucial element in".

Is it okay to use "a key thing in" in academic writing?

Yes, "a key thing in" is acceptable in academic writing, but ensure it's used judiciously. Overuse can diminish its impact. Use more precise language when possible.

What are some common contexts where "a key thing in" is used?

"A key thing in" is frequently used in discussions about sports, business strategy, and personal development, where highlighting crucial factors is essential.