causative factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "causative factor" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is generally used to refer to something that is a contributing cause or reason for something else. For example, "Smoking is a causative factor in many health problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I have concluded that it is innate motivation that is the causative factor.

The New York Times

"I'm not saying Islamophobia is the only causative factor, but surely it plays a part," she says.

The Guardian

Gastric reflux is a significant causative factor of tooth erosion.

Journal of Evidence Based Dental Practice

If the results occur less fre quently, then the statisticians conclude that some causative factor was involved.

The New York Times

Shimada, T. et al. Cloning and characterization of FGF23 as a causative factor of tumor-induced osteomalacia.

Nature

Maternal trisomy 21 ovarian mosaicism might provide the major causative factor for fetal Down syndrome.

Contraception

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been implicated as a causative factor of cervical cancer.

European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology

Environmental exposure to metals might be a causative factor for hypertension, but the association remains unclear.

Science of The Total Environment

Persistent cervical infection with high-risk [HR] HPV is a causative factor for cancer.

Journal of Clinical Virology

Wind erosion is increasingly scrutinized as a causative factor in soil degradation and fugitive dust emissions.

Aeolian Research

Conclusion: Findings from this study suggest that shoulder subluxation may be a causative factor for RSD.

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "causative factor", ensure it's supported by evidence and avoid implying it's the only cause unless explicitly stated and proven. For instance, instead of saying "X is the causative factor of Y", consider "X is a causative factor in Y".

Common error

Avoid presenting a "causative factor" as the sole cause when other contributing elements are involved. Always acknowledge the potential for multiple factors influencing the outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "causative factor" functions as a noun phrase, identifying a specific element or influence that contributes to causing a particular result or phenomenon. Ludwig examples show it is mostly associated with negative outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

23%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "causative factor" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term, primarily found in scientific and news contexts. According to Ludwig, its function is to identify elements contributing to outcomes, often in explanatory or analytical contexts. To enhance clarity, avoid overstating its role as the sole cause and support its usage with solid evidence. Related alternatives include "causal agent", "root cause", and "contributing cause", each offering subtle differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Causal agent

Focuses more on the direct agent responsible for causing something.

Causative agent

Similar to "causal agent", but can refer to a more active or direct involvement in causing an effect.

Contributing cause

Emphasizes that the factor is one of several causes.

Underlying reason

Highlights the fundamental or root cause.

Root cause

Points to the most basic or fundamental cause of a problem.

Primary driver

Suggests the main force behind a particular result.

Key determinant

Highlights the most important factor influencing an outcome.

Influential element

Broader term indicating a significant impact without necessarily being the direct cause.

Predominant factor

The most noticeable or significant factor.

Main contributor

Focuses on the aspect that contributes the most to a result.

FAQs

How can I use "causative factor" in a sentence?

You can use "causative factor" to describe something that contributes to a specific outcome. For example, "Smoking is a known causative factor in lung cancer."

What's a more formal way to say "causative factor"?

A more formal alternative to "causative factor" could be "causal agent" or "root cause", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "causative factor" or "causal factor"?

Both "causative factor" and "causal factor" are grammatically correct and often used interchangeably. However, "causative" emphasizes the capacity to cause, while "causal" relates more directly to the cause itself.

What are some synonyms for "causative factor"?

Some synonyms for "causative factor" include "contributing cause", "underlying reason", and "primary driver", each with slight nuances in meaning.