a leading force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a leading force" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is taking a prominent role in a situation or movement. For example, "She has become a leading force in the fight for gender equality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mr. Felder was a leading force in the vote to extend term limits.

The New York Times

Mr. Shumlin, a Democrat, was a leading force in the February vote.

The New York Times

A passionate orator, he quickly became a leading force within the Puerto Rican Nationalist Party.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Bar-Ilan is a leading force in unifying Israel's religious and secular communities.

The New York Times

He was also a leading force behind the rise of affluent, western-style suburbs ringing Cairo.

The Guardian

John McCain, as a leading force in McCain-Feingold, asked outside groups not to spend in support of his candidacy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Hip-hop has been a leading force in what might be called the un-ironic American self-homage.

The New Yorker

Bit by bit, Mr. Prisant became a leading force in the historic preservation movement in the Roslyn area.

The New York Times

Carter Family, singing group that was a leading force in the spread and popularization of the songs of the Appalachian Mountain region of the eastern United States.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Through his positions, Duffy has been a leading force behind the exchange's ongoing evolution as well as its increasing prominence in the U.S. and globally.

The New York Times

A leading force, and one of the greatest actors of the century, was Jean-Louis Barrault, who excelled in both classical and modern plays.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a leading force", ensure that the context clearly indicates the area in which the subject is influential. Provide specific examples or details to support the claim.

Common error

Avoid using "a leading force" when the subject's influence is minor or unsubstantiated. Overstating influence can weaken your argument and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a leading force" functions as a noun phrase that identifies an entity or factor that has significant influence or prominence in a particular context. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a leading force" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe an entity with significant influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. It's essential to ensure the subject's influence is accurately represented and well-supported. Consider alternatives like "a dominant influence" or "a key driver" based on the specific nuance you aim to convey. The most frequent sources include The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica, indicating its acceptance in authoritative contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dominant influence

This alternative replaces "leading force" with "dominant influence", emphasizing the power to control or affect something.

a significant influence

Replaces 'force' with "a significant influence", indicating a notable effect without necessarily implying direct action.

a driving influence

Substitutes 'leading' with "a driving influence", emphasizing the motivating and energetic role.

a key driver

This phrase suggests that something is "a key driver" or a major factor behind an event or process.

a major player

This alternative describes someone or something as "a major player", suggesting a significant role in a particular field or activity.

a prime mover

This phrase suggests that someone or something is "a prime mover", or the main initiator or cause of an action.

a principal catalyst

Changes the phrase to "a principal catalyst", suggesting the subject initiates change or action.

a central figure

This term highlights the person or thing at the "a central figure" of importance in a particular context.

a powerful advocate

This describes someone who is "a powerful advocate", promoting a cause or idea effectively.

an instrumental figure

This highlights someone as "an instrumental figure", meaning that they were essential to a process or result.

FAQs

How can I use "a leading force" in a sentence?

You can use "a leading force" to describe an entity that is significantly influencing a particular area. For example, "Technology has become "a leading force" in modern education".

What are some alternatives to "a leading force"?

Alternatives include "a dominant influence", "a key driver", or "a major player" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "leading force" or "dominant force"?

The choice between "leading force" and "dominant force" depends on the context. "Leading force" implies guidance and influence, while "dominant force" suggests control and power.

What's the difference between "a leading force" and "an important factor"?

"A leading force" suggests a proactive and influential role, whereas "an important factor" simply indicates significance. A leading force actively shapes events, while an important factor may only contribute to them.