an important tool

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an important tool" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that serves a significant purpose or function in a particular context. Example: "In modern education, technology has become an important tool for enhancing learning experiences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's an important tool".

The New York Times

Improvisation is an important tool.

The Guardian

Diplomacy is an important tool for advancing America's national security.

The New York Times

It's become an important tool for public officials".

The New York Times

"I think this is going to be an important tool".

The New York Times - Science

Radio, Kaufman noted, is an important tool for language activists.

The New Yorker

The annual is an important tool for them".

The New York Times

But I still think it's an important tool".

The New York Times

"It's an important tool in our kit going forward".

The New York Times

Section 5 is an important tool, the chief justice said.

The New York Times

"Clearly it is an important tool these days.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an important tool", ensure the context clearly identifies what the tool is and why it's significant. Avoid vague references; be specific about its function and benefits.

Common error

Avoid using "an important tool" as a generic compliment. Always provide concrete reasons and evidence to support why something is considered important. For example, don't just say "data analysis is an important tool"; explain how it drives better decision-making or improves efficiency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an important tool" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies something as having significant utility or value. As Ludwig AI notes, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

39%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an important tool" is a versatile and frequently used expression to highlight the significance and utility of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. With a neutral to professional register, it commonly appears in news, scientific, and business publications. As such, it is important to use it in situations where the significance of the subject is clear and well-supported. Alternatives like "a crucial instrument" or "a key resource" can offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crucial instrument

Replaces "tool" with "instrument", emphasizing precision and importance.

a vital asset

Substitutes "tool" with "asset", highlighting its value and contribution.

a key resource

Replaces "tool" with "resource", focusing on its availability and support.

an essential component

Replaces "important tool" with "essential component", stressing its necessity.

a significant mechanism

Substitutes "tool" with "mechanism", suitable for technical or process-oriented contexts.

a valuable method

Replaces "tool" with "method", emphasizing the procedure or technique involved.

a primary means

Focuses on the role as a way to achieve something.

a critical element

Highlights the essential nature of the tool.

a powerful technique

Emphasizes the strength and effectiveness of the tool.

a fundamental instrument

Stresses the basic and essential nature of the tool.

FAQs

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

Use "an important tool" to highlight the significance of something in achieving a specific goal. For instance, "In project management, effective communication is "an important tool" for ensuring team alignment and project success."

What are some alternatives to "an important tool"?

You can use alternatives like "a crucial instrument", "a vital asset", or "a key resource" to express the significance of something.

Is it better to say "important tool" or "essential tool"?

Both "important tool" and "essential tool" are acceptable, but "essential tool" ("an essential tool") implies that the tool is absolutely necessary, while "important tool" suggests it is highly valuable but perhaps not indispensable.

In what contexts is "an important tool" most appropriate?

"An important tool" is suitable in various contexts, including academic writing, business reports, news articles, and scientific publications. It's versatile and can be used whenever you want to emphasize the significance of something in achieving a specific outcome.