a major reason for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major reason for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a significant cause or factor contributing to a particular outcome or situation. Example: "The lack of funding was a major reason for the project's failure."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A major reason for that reticence is oil.

The New York Times

Contreras is a major reason for the doubts.

The New York Times - Sports

This a major reason for the sharp drop in vocations.

The New York Times

"I think that's been a major reason for our success".

The New York Times - Sports

The growth of the surface layer is a major reason for the increased impedance.

Electrochimica Acta

Drying shrinkage can be a major reason for the deterioration of concrete structures.

Construction and Building Materials

Metabolism-related poor pharmacokinetic behavior and toxicities are a major reason for drug R&D failure.

Biochemical Pharmacology

Neuroleptic noncompliance is a major reason for relapse in outpatients with schizophrenia.

Psychiatry Research

Pain is costly and a major reason for seeking medical care.

The Lancet

Change of the geometry of the crusher liners is a major reason for these costs.

Minerals Engineering

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a major reason for antibiotic prescription in small animal practice.

The Veterinary Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a major reason for", ensure that the sentence clearly indicates the consequence or result. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity. For example, "The economic downturn was a major reason for the company's bankruptcy."

Common error

Avoid using "a major reason for" when the factor is only a minor contributor. Overstating the importance can weaken your argument. Instead, consider using phrases like "a contributing factor" or "one of the reasons".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major reason for" functions as a causal connector, introducing a significant cause or factor contributing to a specific outcome. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it connects an event or situation to its primary underlying reason. Ludwig AI confirms it follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

34%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a major reason for" is a commonly used and grammatically correct causal connector that introduces a significant cause or factor. As Ludwig's analysis and examples show, this phrase is frequently employed across science, news, and academic contexts to explain or justify an event. Ludwig AI confirms it adheres to standard grammatical rules. While versatile, it's important to avoid overstating significance and to ensure clarity in linking the reason to its consequence. Consider alternatives like "a primary cause of" or "a key factor in" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a primary cause of

Focuses more directly on causation rather than just a reason.

a key factor in

Highlights importance as an element contributing to a result.

a significant contributor to

Emphasizes the contribution made to an outcome.

largely attributable to

Indicates something is mainly caused or influenced by a specific factor.

a crucial element for

Stresses that something is critically important or essential.

a central aspect of

Highlights its role as one of the most important things to consider.

a driving force behind

Suggests a powerful influence that propels or motivates something.

a fundamental basis for

Implies a groundwork or essential support.

an important determinant of

Focuses on the role it plays in defining or controlling an outcome.

a major influence on

Indicates a powerful effect on someone or something.

FAQs

How can I use "a major reason for" in a sentence?

Use "a major reason for" to indicate a significant cause or factor contributing to a particular outcome. For example, "Lack of funding was "a major reason for" the project's cancellation."

What can I say instead of "a major reason for"?

You can use alternatives like "a primary cause of", "a key factor in", or "a significant contributor to" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "the main and major reason for"?

Yes, using both "main" and "major" is redundant as they convey similar meanings. Choose either "main reason" or "major reason" for conciseness.

What's the difference between "a reason for" and "a major reason for"?

"A reason for" indicates any cause or explanation, while ""a major reason for"" emphasizes that the reason is significant or primary.