an important link

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an important link" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that connects or relates to other elements in a sentence or a larger idea. Example: "Effective communication is an important link in building strong relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For many here it is also an important link with the community's seafaring heritage.

The New York Times

Keene has been an important link with the wider conservative community in the US.

The Guardian

Political parties, an important link between citizens and their government, fare no better.

The Washington Post

Deregulation of secreted mucin 2 (MUC2) production has provided an important link between inflammation and cancer.

Nature

His 1550 visit to Antwerp made Ghisi an important link between Italian and northern engraving.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As a pianist, Henselt is generally regarded as an important link between Hummel and Liszt.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Those banks are an important link between the Fed and Main Street," he said.

The New York Times

This important book convincingly argues that qualitative reasoning provides an important link between perception and cognition.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

They build an important link between the Eurasian loess belt and European and Central Asian archives.

Quaternary International

This pathway may provide an important link between chronic inflammation and cancer.

Gastroenterology

In the war on terrorism, auto theft investigation can be an important link.

Forensic Investigation of Stolen-Recovered and Other Crime-Related Vehicles

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an important link" when you want to emphasize a connection between two or more distinct entities or concepts.

Common error

Avoid using "an important link" as a generic substitute for more precise descriptions. Specify the nature of the connection to provide clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an important link" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. It identifies something that connects or relates to other elements. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an important link" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to highlight significant connections. As Ludwig AI indicates, its frequent appearance across diverse sources like science journals, news outlets, and encyclopedias underscores its broad applicability. While useful, it's crucial to avoid overuse and consider more specific descriptors to enhance clarity. Alternatives such as "a crucial connection" or "a key component" may be more appropriate depending on the context. The phrase’s prevalence in formal and neutral registers suggests its suitability for professional communication. Overall, "an important link" effectively signals interconnectedness when used thoughtfully.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crucial connection

Replaces "important link" with synonyms that emphasize the vital nature of the connection.

a key component

Shifts the focus to the role of being a part or element, not necessarily a connector.

a vital relationship

Focuses on the relationship aspect, highlighting the importance of the connection between two or more things.

an essential element

Emphasizes necessity rather than connection or importance.

a significant factor

Highlights the influence rather than direct connectivity.

an integral part

Highlights that it is necessary to complete the whole, instead of connecting two or more things.

a critical aspect

Focuses on the importance of a particular feature or element.

a valuable asset

Shifts the emphasis to its usefulness and worth rather than its linking function.

a strategic resource

Highlights the calculated value and application.

a cornerstone of

Implies foundational importance, but not necessarily a connection.

FAQs

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

Use "an important link" to highlight a connection between two or more elements. For example, "Effective communication is "an important link" in building strong relationships".

What are some alternatives to saying "an important link"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a crucial connection", "a key component", or "a vital relationship".

Is it correct to say "a important link" instead of "an important link"?

No, it is incorrect. Since "important" begins with a vowel sound, the indefinite article "an" should be used instead of "a".

What's the difference between "an essential link" and "an important link"?

"An essential link" suggests something is absolutely necessary, while "an important link" simply indicates that something is significant or valuable.