an important factor

USAGE SUMMARY

"an important factor" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a relevant or critical element that influences a particular situation or outcome. For example, "Education is an important factor in personal success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That's an important factor.

Independent

"Traffic is an important factor".

The New York Times

Risk is clearly an important factor.

The Economist

But an important factor is economic openness.

The Economist

Water may also be an important factor.

The New York Times - Science

Control is an important factor to them".

The New York Times

> >>>>>Security is an important factor.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Confidence will be an important factor".

The New York Times

Gender has always been an important factor.

The Guardian - Books

Serve is an important factor, too.

The Guardian - Sport

Weight can be an important factor.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an important factor", ensure the context clearly establishes what the factor influences or impacts. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid overuse; not everything can be "an important factor". Reserve the phrase for elements that genuinely have a significant impact, otherwise, it dilutes the meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an important factor" functions as a noun phrase, highlighting a significant element that contributes to a specific outcome or situation. Examples from Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts, reinforcing its role in identifying key influences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an important factor" is a frequently used phrase to emphasize a significant element in a particular situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and academia. To maximize clarity, specify what the factor influences, and avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "a key element" or "a significant aspect" can offer nuanced alternatives. Remember to consider the appropriate register, aiming for a neutral to professional tone when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a key element

Focuses on the essential, foundational nature of the element.

a significant aspect

Emphasizes the noteworthiness or impact of the aspect.

a crucial component

Highlights that the element is essential for the whole to function.

a vital consideration

Stresses the need to think carefully about the element.

a major influence

Focuses on the power to affect something.

a primary concern

Highlights that the element is the main priority.

a central point

Emphasizes the element's position at the core of the matter.

a notable feature

Highlights the element as worth paying attention to.

a relevant variable

Highlights the element's connection to the situation being discussed.

a decisive factor

Emphasizes that the element has the power to determine an outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "an important factor" in a sentence?

You can use "an important factor" to highlight a significant element influencing a situation. For example, "Economic stability is "an important factor" in reducing crime rates."

What are some alternatives to "an important factor"?

Alternatives include "a key element", "a significant aspect", or "a crucial component" depending on the context.

How does "an important factor" differ from "a contributing factor"?

"An important factor" suggests greater significance or impact compared to "a contributing factor", which simply indicates that something adds to the overall effect without necessarily being primary.

Is it always necessary to specify what "an important factor" influences?

While not always grammatically required, specifying what "an important factor" influences greatly improves clarity and prevents ambiguity. Without clear context, the phrase can lack impact.