a pivotal factor

USAGE SUMMARY

"a pivotal factor" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a single thing, event, or attribute that is especially important or influential in a particular situation. For example: "The availability of skilled workers was a pivotal factor in the company's decision to move to a new location."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Rice had six receptions for 74 yards, but was not a pivotal factor.

The New York Times - Sports

He also says the "alignment of the organization" has been a pivotal factor in its success.

The New York Times

His strength in the physical exchanges is a pivotal factor in New Zealand's front row.

The Guardian - Sport

Nevill said that addressing the imbalance in diversity was a pivotal factor in maintaining the quality of British film.

The Guardian - Film

"The ID Plus project was a pivotal factor in my decision to leave Greece.

The New York Times

In fact, that longevity countdown might be a pivotal factor two years in a row with Zimmermann and Strasburg.

The Washington Post

And yet, the church's campaign could prove to be a pivotal factor in the race for the presidency.

The New York Times

Legal experts say that point could be a pivotal factor in determining whether Mr. Cipel's claim was a legitimate attempt at a settlement or an attempt at extortion.

The New York Times

This iPod success story also virtually screens out a pivotal factor in its earth-shaking influence: the actual earth-shaking of 9/11.

The New York Times - Books

With endorsements by local party committees a pivotal factor in New Jersey primaries, he has also funneled campaign cash directly to Democratic politicians and political organizations.

The New York Times

Shiite religious leaders, without even leaving their homes in Najaf, have already emerged as a pivotal factor in the deliberations at the Iraqi Governing Council in Baghdad.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a pivotal factor" when you want to emphasize that a specific element is critically important to the outcome or success of something. It adds weight to your argument and highlights the significance of that factor.

Common error

Avoid using "a pivotal factor" in simple or obvious situations where the importance of the factor is already clear. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a pivotal factor" functions as a noun phrase identifying a key element that significantly influences an outcome or situation. As confirmed by Ludwig, its role is to denote importance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a pivotal factor" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize the critical importance of a specific element in a situation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal writing. While versatile, it’s important to avoid overuse in simplistic contexts. Alternatives like "a crucial element" or "a key component" can be used for variety. The phrase carries a neutral tone and is widely understood, making it a valuable addition to your writing toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crucial element

Focuses on the necessity and importance of the element.

a key component

Highlights the role of the component as essential to the whole.

an essential aspect

Emphasizes the fundamental nature of the aspect.

a significant determinant

Underscores the influence it has on determining an outcome.

a critical variable

Highlights the importance of the variable in scientific or analytical contexts.

a central consideration

Emphasizes its role as a primary point to think about.

a deciding influence

Focuses on the power to sway or conclude something.

a game changer

Implies the factor dramatically alters the situation.

a cornerstone

Suggests the factor is a fundamental basis or support.

a major force

Indicates the factor exerts considerable power or impact.

FAQs

How can I use "a pivotal factor" in a sentence?

Use "a pivotal factor" to highlight an element of utmost importance. For example, "Teamwork was "a pivotal factor" in the project's success".

What are some alternatives to "a pivotal factor"?

You can use alternatives like "a crucial element", "a key component", or "a significant determinant" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "a very pivotal factor"?

Yes, it is generally redundant. The word "pivotal" already implies significant importance, so adding "very" doesn't add more meaning. Just use ""a pivotal factor"".

What's the difference between "a pivotal factor" and "a contributing factor"?

"A pivotal factor" suggests a primary or decisive influence, whereas "a contributing factor" simply means it played a part, but might not have been the most important.