a major force behind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major force behind" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that plays a significant role in causing or influencing an event or situation. Example: "She was a major force behind the success of the community project, rallying volunteers and securing funding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

OFFICIALLY Mr. Tint Swe, 47, was a major force behind the military's formidable propaganda machine.

The New York Times

Stock splits were a major force behind the big increase in share counts at major companies.

The New York Times

Ruth Spencer: She was a major force behind last week's episode... but what happened?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

president, a participant in the talks and a major force behind the effort.

The New York Times

A former president, Vladimir Voronin, was a major force behind the walkout.

The New York Times

Bloomberg News also was a major force behind changes in journalism.

Britannica

As Loren Glass has explained, in "Counterculture Colophon," Rosset was a major force behind the anti-censorship campaign.

The New Yorker

In Michigan, the auto industry has been a major force behind one of the largest medical-home projects yet devised.

The New York Times

Exxon is also a major force behind the Global Climate Coalition, a business lobby that opposed Kyoto.

The New York Times

Mr. Hambleton's daughter Linda Panitz has been a major force behind the Baltimore Symphony for the last 36 years.

The New York Times

Apple said a brisk back-to-school season was a major force behind the better-than-expected results.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a major force behind", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being influenced or driven. The phrase implies a significant and direct impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a major force behind" if the influence is minor or indirect. The phrase suggests a primary and substantial impact, so reserve it for genuinely significant factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major force behind" functions as a modifier, specifically describing something that significantly influences or drives an event, situation, or outcome. Ludwig provides examples where it highlights key individuals, trends, or factors.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a major force behind" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to describe a significant influence or driver of an event, trend, or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, with primary usage in News & Media, Science, and Academia. To ensure accuracy, use this phrase only when the described factor truly has a substantial and direct impact. Alternative phrases include "key factor in" and "primary driver of". By understanding its proper usage and context, writers can effectively convey the importance of various influences in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

instrumental in

Highlights the essential role in bringing about a particular result.

a primary driver of

Highlights the active role in propelling something forward.

a key factor in

Focuses on the importance as a contributing element.

a significant influence on

Emphasizes the impact and sway over something.

a leading influence in

Indicates a prominent and guiding impact.

a powerful catalyst for

Stresses the role in initiating or accelerating a change.

the main impetus for

Highlights the driving reason or motivation.

a central figure in

Focuses on a person's key involvement and importance.

a vital component of

Emphasizes the necessary and integral aspect.

a critical element in

Stresses the crucial and indispensable nature.

FAQs

How can I use "a major force behind" in a sentence?

Use "a major force behind" to describe someone or something that significantly influences an event, movement, or trend. For example, "Technological innovation was "a major force behind" the company's growth".

What are some alternatives to "a major force behind"?

You can use alternatives like "key factor in", "primary driver of", or "significant influence on" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a major force behind" in formal writing?

Yes, "a major force behind" is suitable for formal writing as it is a clear and professional way to express a significant influence or cause. Ludwig examples show the phrase used frequently in news articles and academic papers.

What is the difference between "a major force behind" and "a contributing factor to"?

"A major force behind" implies a more substantial and direct influence compared to "a contributing factor to", which suggests a smaller or less direct impact. Use "a major force behind" when emphasizing a primary cause.