be a key factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a key factor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance or influence of a particular element in a situation or outcome. Example: "Effective communication can be a key factor in the success of any team project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Price will be a key factor.

The Guardian - Business

Among some undecided voters, that could be a key factor.

The New Yorker

It absolutely could be a key factor in the coming election".

The Guardian - Business

Matarić concluded that, as with human caregivers, temperament would be a key factor.

The New Yorker

Technology will be a key factor in holding temperatures to a modest level.

The Guardian

Mr. House said the willingness of Americans to gamble big might be a key factor.

The New York Times - Arts

Stevens, especially, is a hard checker, and his play against Kariya could be a key factor in the series.

The New York Times - Sports

Alcohol is reported to be a key factor in incidents between strangers, two thirds of which were drink-related.

The Guardian

She said: "Self-employment appears to be a key factor in the UK economy's shift towards low-paid work.

The Guardian

Cockerill believes Leicester's improving form could be a key factor as his team seek a place in the playoffs.

The Guardian - Sport

In the fall's battle with President Obama, women will be a key factor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be a key factor" when you want to emphasize the significant influence of something on an outcome. For example: "Teamwork can "be a key factor" in achieving project success."

Common error

Avoid using "be a key factor" in very simple sentences where a more direct verb would suffice. For example, instead of "Price "be a key factor"", consider "Price matters".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a key factor" functions as a predicate nominative, identifying a subject as a significant element within a given context. Ludwig's examples show it in various scenarios, emphasizing its role in outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be a key factor" is a widely used phrase to highlight the significant influence of an element on a particular outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various domains, especially in science and news media. When writing, consider using alternatives like "be a crucial element" or "play a decisive role" to add variety to your writing. Also, avoid using this phrase in overly simplistic sentences where a more direct verb would suffice. Remember that the phrase communicates importance, so reserve it for situations where a specific element truly has a substantial impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be a crucial element

Substitutes "key factor" with "crucial element", emphasizing necessity.

be a critical component

Replaces "key factor" with "critical component", highlighting essentiality.

be a significant influence

Changes the structure to focus on the act of influencing rather than being a factor.

be a major consideration

Shifts the context to something being considered important.

play a decisive role

Uses "role" instead of "factor", implying an active contribution.

prove instrumental

Emphasizes the helpfulness and utility of something.

be essential

Simplifies the phrase to its most basic meaning of being necessary.

be paramount

Indicates the highest level of importance or dominance.

be of great importance

States the importance directly, without using "factor".

be central to

Highlights something being at the core or center of an issue.

FAQs

What does "be a key factor" mean?

The phrase "be a key factor" signifies something that is very important and has a significant impact on the outcome of a situation. It suggests that without this element, the result would likely be different.

How can I use "be a key factor" in a sentence?

You can use "be a key factor" when discussing elements that significantly influence a situation, such as, "Motivation can "be a key factor" in academic success.".

What can I say instead of "be a key factor"?

You can use alternatives like "be a crucial element", "play a decisive role", or "be essential" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "be a key factor" or "be the key factor"?

Both phrases are correct, but "be the key factor" implies that it is the single most important element, whereas "be a key factor" suggests it is one of several important elements. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the situation.