as an element

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as an element" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a component or part of a larger whole, often in contexts like analysis, design, or description. Example: "Water is essential as an element of life, playing a crucial role in various biological processes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Earth as an element is clearly important to this artist.

The New York Times - Arts

It's important to think of it as an element in a larger skyline, but also as an element in an immediate streetscape.

The New Yorker

In the 1980's, she became interested in language as an element for art.

The New York Times

"It was used as an element to gain votes," he said.

The Guardian

They witness it as an element adding authenticity to a star turn.

The New York Times

The standards use literacy as an element of instruction in all subjects, Mr. Polakow-Suransky said.

The New York Times

Audi led the way in using LEDs as an element of its design signature.

The New York Times

Labour economics, study of the labour force as an element in the process of production.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hatherly created poetry that used graphic design as an element of composition.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was the first time in two decades that the cobblestones were back as an element of the Tour.

The New York Times - Sports

It works as an element of a musical whole but you wouldn't want to leave it unadorned for too long.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as an element" to clearly indicate that something is being considered as one part of a larger system or concept. This helps to break down complex subjects into manageable components for analysis or discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "as an element" when a simpler preposition like 'in' or 'of' would suffice. Overuse can make writing sound unnecessarily complex and less direct. For instance, instead of "consider diligence as an element of success", try "consider diligence in achieving success".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as an element" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb. It indicates that the subject is being considered as a component or part of a larger whole. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its versatile usage across various fields.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as an element" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that identifies something as a component of a larger entity. As indicated by Ludwig, its use spans from formal scientific discourse to general news reporting, establishing its versatility. When writing, be sure to provide adequate context to justify its use over simpler alternatives. By using phrases like "as a component" or "as a part", you can ensure clarity and precision in your writing while avoiding overuse. Overall, "as an element" is appropriate for specifying the role or function of one aspect within a greater system, according to Ludwig's analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a component

Replaces "element" with a synonym emphasizing a part of a whole.

as a part

Similar to "as a component", but more general and less formal.

as an aspect

Focuses on a particular feature or facet.

as a feature

Highlights a characteristic or attribute.

as an ingredient

Implies a necessary component, often in a recipe or process.

as a constituent

More formal, suggesting a fundamental part of a structure.

as a member

Suggests belonging to a group or set.

as a portion

Refers to a specific quantity or share.

functioning as a piece

Emphasizes the role or function of the element within the larger system.

constituting a fragment

Highlights the fragmental or incomplete nature of the element.

FAQs

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

Use "as an element" to specify that something is part of a larger whole or system. For example, "Communication is vital "as an element" of teamwork", indicating communication is one component of successful teamwork.

What phrases can I use instead of "as an element"?

You can substitute "as an element" with phrases like "as a component", "as a part", or "as an aspect", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more correct to say "as element" or "as an element"?

It is grammatically correct to use "as an element". The indefinite article "an" is used because "element" starts with a vowel sound. Omitting "an" would be grammatically incorrect in most contexts.

What is the difference between "as an element" and "as a factor"?

"As an element" refers to a constituent part of something, while "as a factor" suggests something that influences or contributes to a result. Use "as an element" when describing composition and "as a factor" when discussing influence.