chief reasons

USAGE SUMMARY

"chief reasons" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to the main or primary reasons for something. For example, you could say "The chief reasons for his success were his hard work and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

(Domestic violence and overcrowding were other chief reasons).

The New York Times

This is a matter of importance, for two chief reasons.

The Guardian - Opinion

But new sensations are one of the chief reasons we go to restaurants like Atera.

The New York Times

Indeed, some believe that is one of the chief reasons for its success.

The Economist

It's what Japan, an ageing, indebted nation, so badly needs.Two chief reasons incline me towards the "no-party" depiction.

The Economist

Cholera epidemics were one of the chief reasons for the migration of the inhabitants from Old Goa to Panjim.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The chief reasons are lower pay and more frequent job changes, which can result in losing benefits.

The New York Times

Losing a job and relationship breakdown are among the chief reasons for households falling into serious debt.

The Guardian - Money

Extortionate childcare costs are often cited as one of the chief reasons why both parents do not go to work.

The Guardian - Money

Mr. Gore's supporters cited his experience and the accomplishments of the Clinton administration as their chief reasons for backing him.

The New York Times

Measles shots are often cited as one of the chief reasons that deaths of children under age 5 around the world have fallen steadily.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "chief reasons", ensure that the reasons you are highlighting are genuinely the most significant ones. Avoid listing minor factors as "chief".

Common error

A common mistake is to label ordinary reasons as "chief reasons". Reserve this phrase for the most critical and impactful factors to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chief reasons" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the principal causes or justifications for a particular situation, event, or decision. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a common way to introduce the most important factors.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "chief reasons" is a frequently used and grammatically correct phrase to denote the main causes or justifications for something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It appears most often in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the reasons highlighted are genuinely the most significant. Alternatives such as "main causes" or "primary motives" can be used depending on the specific context. While versatile, overstating the importance of factors can diminish the phrase's impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main causes

Focuses on the causal aspect, emphasizing the primary causes rather than justifications.

primary motives

Highlights the motivations behind actions, rather than the reasons in a general sense.

principal factors

Emphasizes the important elements that contribute to a particular outcome or situation.

key justifications

Stresses the reasons offered as defense or support, often in a more formal context.

leading grounds

Indicates the foundation or basis for an action or decision.

major considerations

Highlights elements that were carefully taken into account before making a decision.

foremost explanations

Focuses on the most important clarifications or accounts of why something happened.

central arguments

Emphasizes the core points made in support of a particular stance or conclusion.

overriding concerns

Highlights the most significant worries or issues that take precedence over others.

prime drivers

Focuses on the forces or factors that propel or stimulate a particular outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "chief reasons" in a sentence?

You can use "chief reasons" to introduce the main causes or justifications for an event or decision. For example, "The "chief reasons" for the company's success were innovative marketing and strong customer service."

What phrases can I use instead of "chief reasons"?

Alternatives to "chief reasons" include "main causes", "primary motives", or "principal factors", depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "chief reasons" or "main reasons"?

"Chief reasons" and "main reasons" are often interchangeable, but "chief reasons" implies a higher degree of importance or impact compared to "main reasons".

What's the difference between "chief reasons" and "primary reasons"?

The terms "chief reasons" and "primary reasons" are highly similar, both denoting the most important causes or justifications. "Chief" may suggest a more authoritative or decisive factor, while "primary" simply indicates precedence.