central factor

USAGE SUMMARY

"central factor" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a key element that plays an important role within a certain context or situation. For example, "Time constraint was the central factor influencing our decision to not take on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This was a central factor in the formation of a centralized political system, and the construction of the Great Wall is evidence of this historical process.

International Journal of Anthropology and Ethnology

Kosovo was a pretext, not a central factor, he says.

The New York Times

They are not the central factor they used to be.

The New York Times

The central factor in "The Sleeping Beauty" is Tchaikovsky's music.

The New York Times - Arts

Coventry city council is very cooperative in doing that, which is a central factor.

The Guardian - Business

Contingent work too was a central factor in increasing inequality throughout the OECD.

The Guardian - Tech

His message was that the central factor in regional stability remained the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The New York Times

The central factor is whether yellow cabs and ride-hailing services will eventually be equally regulated.

The New Yorker

He said a central factor was Iran's insistence that Iraq's Sunnis, and their backers in Saudi Arabia, not be empowered.

The Guardian

The power of social media is, I think, the central factor in the sudden resurgence and widespread influence of progressivism.

The New Yorker

The ability to communicate emotion amidst the physicality was a central factor in choosing performers, Mr. James said later.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Make "central factor" stronger by quantifying it to show its importance. For example, instead of just stating the factor, say "the most important factor", or "the key factor responsible for 80% of the change".

Common error

Avoid using "central factor" when the element is merely influential. Reserve the term for elements that are truly fundamental and primary; otherwise, use "contributing factor" or "relevant aspect" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "central factor" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or an appositive to identify a key element within a specific context. Ludwig confirms its correct usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "central factor" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to emphasize a key element influencing a particular outcome or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted and applicable across various contexts, including News & Media and Science. While synonyms like "key determinant" and "primary driver" offer alternative ways to express similar ideas, "central factor" remains a straightforward and effective choice. It is important to ensure its accurate and proper usage by confirming the element is indeed the primary influence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key determinant

Focuses on the aspect of determination, highlighting that the factor is decisive.

primary driver

Emphasizes the causal role of the factor in propelling a process or outcome.

main component

Highlights the factor as a critical part of a larger system or entity.

core element

Stresses the fundamental and indispensable nature of the factor.

principal aspect

Shifts focus to a specific facet or perspective that is of utmost importance.

critical element

Emphasizes the crucial and potentially decisive nature of the factor.

essential ingredient

Highlights that the factor is necessary and vital for a successful outcome.

major influence

Focuses on the power and impact that the factor exerts.

significant consideration

Stresses the importance of the factor in decision-making and planning.

vital aspect

Emphasizes the necessity and importance of the factor.

FAQs

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

You can use "central factor" to highlight a key element that influences an outcome, such as, "The availability of resources was the "central factor" in the project's success."

What's a good alternative to "central factor"?

Alternatives to "central factor" include "key determinant", "primary driver", or "main component", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "a central factor" or "the central factor"?

Using "the central factor" suggests that it is the single most important element. "A central factor" implies that it is one of several important elements. The choice depends on the context.

Can "central factor" be used in both formal and informal writing?

Yes, "central factor" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, although more formal contexts might prefer synonyms like "principal aspect" or "critical element" for a more sophisticated tone.