a major impetus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major impetus" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant force or motivation behind an action or change. Example: "The new policy served as a major impetus for the company's growth in the last quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

As a result, exports have grown steadily and proved a major impetus to growth.

The Guardian - Business

The agricultural revolution, dated to about 10,000 bce, gave a major impetus to building construction.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Evidently, a major impetus for Beijing's decision was international pressure for transparency and greater respect for human rights.

The New Yorker

Ms. Reardon said changing technology, which allowed producers who did not shoot on film to align with Aftra, had been a major impetus to the combination.

The New York Times

However, he noted that, particularly in mainland China, a major impetus for buyers is the ability to let "others know that they possess something luxurious".

The New York Times

When the votes were counted for the April 19 New York primary, Dukakis had finished first, providing a major impetus to his campaign.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the short term, an emissions charge would create a major impetus for a move from oil and coal to natural gas, with its much lower carbon content.

The New York Times

A major impetus to truss design came in the development of covered bridges in the United States in the early 19th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A major impetus to the global growth of trade was the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), a series of trade agreements adopted in 1948.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In addition to Chaney's performance this season, Layden and Dolan cited the quest for stability as a major impetus in their decision.

The New York Times - Sports

A major impetus for the filming of "Twilight," Ms. Smith said, came from a performance of the play in Washington in the mid-90's.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a major impetus", ensure the sentence clearly indicates what the impetus is driving or influencing. This provides clarity and context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid attributing an outcome solely to "a major impetus" when other factors are also at play. Acknowledge contributing elements to provide a more accurate and nuanced explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major impetus" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a significant factor that motivates or drives a particular action or development, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a major impetus" is a versatile phrase used to denote a significant driving force or motivation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic writing. While it maintains a generally neutral tone, its formality can shift based on the source, often leaning toward professional and academic discourse. When using "a major impetus", ensure clarity by specifying what it influences and avoid oversimplifying complex situations by recognizing additional contributing factors. Alternatives such as "a significant catalyst" or "a primary driving force" may provide suitable substitutes depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant catalyst

Emphasizes the role of being a cause that speeds up a result or change.

a primary driving force

Focuses on the idea of being the main factor that causes something to happen.

a key motivating factor

Highlights the aspect of motivation and being essential to causing action.

a substantial stimulus

Suggests something that provokes activity or development, implying considerable impact.

a considerable encouragement

Highlights the aspect of giving support and confidence, leading to a particular outcome.

a powerful incentive

Focuses on providing a strong reason or reward for doing something.

a notable contribution

Highlights the important part played in an action or result.

a considerable influence

Focuses on having an important effect on someone or something.

a vital push

Implies a necessary action that gives momentum to move forward.

a strong stimulant

Indicates a factor that increases activity or excitement.

FAQs

How can I use "a major impetus" in a sentence?

Use "a major impetus" to indicate a significant factor that drives or motivates a particular action or outcome. For example, "The new regulations were a major impetus for the company's shift to sustainable practices."

What are some alternatives to "a major impetus"?

You can use alternatives such as "a significant catalyst", "a primary driving force", or "a key motivating factor" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "major impetus" or "significant impetus"?

Both "major impetus" and "significant impetus" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific nuance you want to express. Consider the surrounding text to ensure consistency and flow.

What's the difference between "a major impetus" and "a major cause"?

"A major impetus" suggests a driving force or motivation behind an action or event, while "a major cause" implies a direct reason for something happening. An impetus propels action, whereas a cause directly results in an effect.