an essential element in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an essential element in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is a crucial part of a larger concept or system. Example: "Communication is an essential element in building strong relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This painting is an essential element in the show.

The New York Times - Arts

This recognizes an essential element in gay identity that cannot be denied.

The New York Times

This would destroy an essential element in this game -- and this is emotion," he added.

The New York Times - Sports

And his potassium — an essential element in body chemistry, regulated by the kidneys — was dangerously high.

The New York Times - Magazine

The first is to make forests an essential element in the soon-to-be chosen SDGs.

The Guardian

Bombers remained an essential element in the major air forces of the world, however.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The two-storied stoa became an essential element in the planning of marketplaces or administrative areas.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Half-tracks were thus an essential element in German panzer and motorized infantry divisions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Chris Ofili wanted to do something nice for the elephants who have long supplied an essential element in his art.

The New York Times - Arts

His responsibility principle says, very plausibly, that responsibility for the goods we possess is an essential element in our happiness.

The New York Times

Counterpoint can be considered more broadly, however, as an essential element in many styles within Western music.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an essential element in", ensure that the noun following 'in' is specific and clearly defines the context. This improves clarity and provides a more precise understanding of the element's importance.

Common error

Avoid using "an essential element in" for aspects that are merely helpful or beneficial, but not strictly necessary. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an essential element in" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun, indicating that something is a fundamental and necessary part of a larger whole. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to highlight the importance of a specific component.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

6%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an essential element in" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the criticality of a component within a larger context. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread use. While versatile, it's important to use it judiciously to avoid overstating the importance of less critical aspects. Alternatives like "a crucial component of" or "a fundamental aspect of" can provide similar emphasis with slightly different nuances. The phrase appears frequently in scientific, news, and encyclopedic content, making it suitable for formal and neutral registers. Remember to use this phrase when you mean to highlight a key aspect without which something cannot properly function.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crucial component of

Replaces "element" with "component" and "essential" with "crucial", emphasizing the importance of the part.

a fundamental aspect of

Substitutes "essential element" with "fundamental aspect", highlighting the basic nature of the element.

a key ingredient in

Replaces "element" with "ingredient", implying that the item is a necessary part of the mixture.

a vital part of

Uses "vital part" instead of "essential element", stressing the necessity for survival or success.

an integral feature of

Replaces "element" with "feature" and "essential" with "integral", emphasizing its integrated and necessary quality.

a necessary condition for

Highlights that the item is a prerequisite, changing "element" to "condition" and using "necessary" instead of "essential".

a basic requirement for

Focuses on the required nature of the item, replacing "element" with "requirement" and using "basic" instead of "essential".

a cornerstone of

Emphasizes the supporting and foundational role of the element, replacing "essential element" with "cornerstone".

the essence of

Shifts the focus to the core nature of something, replacing "essential element" with "essence".

at the heart of

Indicates that the element is central and fundamental, changing the structure while maintaining a similar meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "an essential element in" in a sentence?

Use "an essential element in" to highlight a crucial component within a broader context. For example, "Teamwork is "an essential element in" successful project completion."

What are some alternatives to saying "an essential element in"?

You can use phrases such as "a crucial component of", "a fundamental aspect of", or "a key ingredient in" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "essential" or "important" when describing an element?

"Essential" implies something is necessary and fundamental, while "important" suggests something is significant but not necessarily indispensable. Use "an essential element in" when the element is absolutely crucial for success or function.

How does "an essential element in" differ from "a contributing factor to"?

"An essential element in" suggests a necessary component, whereas "a contributing factor to" indicates something that influences the outcome but is not necessarily required. Essential elements are indispensable; contributing factors are helpful but not always vital.