an element of it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an element of it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a part or component of a larger whole, often in discussions about concepts, ideas, or systems. Example: "Trust is an element of it that cannot be overlooked in any successful relationship."

✓ Grammatically correct

The phrase "an element of it" is commonly found in news and media, often discussing a component or aspect of a broader topic. It also appears in academic and scientific contexts, referring to a specific part of a theory or study. Furthermore, it is used in formal and business settings when discussing features of services or strategies.

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

But perhaps like Chaplin – sensuously in tune with the infantile psychology of the tyrant in his Hitler spoof The Great Dictator (and oddly lenient towards Stalin in real life) – there's an element of "it takes one to know one".

The Guardian - Film

The product, therefore, is embedded in the service offering and sold as an element of it.

Harvard Business Review

But I think top sportsmen, yes, there is an element of it.

The Guardian - Sport

"Now there's an element of it being a little too easy.

The New York Times - Tech

And depression's something that people would... probably assume I've always had an element of it in me.

The Guardian

Or rather an element of it is: a back edition — summer 2011 — of the museum's seasonal newsletter.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

"With memory, there is an element of use it or lose it," Liddell said.

The New York Times - Sports

Nobody was giving it cred, so there is an element of, Oh, it's cool now.

The New York Times

In both venues, there may be an element of "toughing it out" to prove they belong.

The New York Times - Magazine

Without an element of novelty, it will be difficult for retailers to overtake entrenched rivals.

Harvard Business Review

Bullshitting can involve an element of artistry; it offers, as Frankfurt acknowledges, opportunities for "improvisation, color, and imaginative play".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an element of it" when you want to emphasize that something is one part or aspect of a larger, more complex whole.

Common error

Avoid using "an element of it" when a simpler phrase like "part of it" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an element of it" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific component or aspect of something larger, adding detail to the subject under discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an element of it" is a versatile phrase used to denote a component or aspect of a larger whole. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and prevalence across various contexts, particularly in news and media, scientific discourse, and business communications. While grammatically sound, it's essential to avoid overuse in simpler contexts where more direct alternatives like "part of it" might be more appropriate. When precision and emphasis on a specific aspect are needed, "an element of it" serves as a valuable tool in clear and effective writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a part of it

Emphasizes the idea of being a portion or segment of something.

a component of it

Highlights the role as a necessary piece within a larger system.

an aspect of it

Focuses on a particular feature or angle of the subject.

a feature of it

Stresses a notable characteristic or attribute.

a facet of it

Implies one side or angle of a multifaceted subject.

a piece of it

Suggests a fragment or segment that contributes to the whole.

a portion of it

Highlights a share or part of the overall entity.

a segment of it

Focuses on a specific division or section.

a fraction of it

Implies a small or minor part of the whole.

a detail of it

Highlights a specific, often minor, aspect.

FAQs

How can I use "an element of it" in a sentence?

You can use "an element of it" to refer to a component or aspect of something larger, as in: "Trust is "a part of it" that cannot be overlooked in any successful relationship."

What are some alternatives to "an element of it"?

Alternatives include "a part of it", "a component of it", or "an aspect of it", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "an element of it" formal or informal?

"An element of it" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although simpler alternatives might be preferred in casual conversation.

When is it best to use "an element of it" over "part of it"?

Use "an element of it" when you want to emphasize that something is a necessary or integral piece, whereas "part of it" is more general and can refer to any portion.