contributing factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contributing factor" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to describe a particular element or influence that contributes to a larger situation or outcome. For example, you could say "Lack of sleep was a contributing factor to the poor test results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One contributing factor is history.

The New York Times

Is technology a contributing factor?

The Guardian - Books

Free school choice is a contributing factor.

The Economist

I think that was a contributing factor.

The New York Times - Sports

One contributing factor was Hurricane Dolly.

The Economist

Fatigue could also be a contributing factor.

The New York Times

One contributing factor is probably force.

The New York Times

A principal contributing factor was money.

Britannica

Why? Adrenaline was one contributing factor.

Harvard Business Review

But he's certainly a major contributing factor.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

possible contributing factor to his stomach problems.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contributing factor", ensure you provide context or evidence to support its role. For example, "High stress levels, a contributing factor to heart disease, should be managed through exercise and meditation."

Common error

Avoid presenting a "contributing factor" as the sole cause. Acknowledge other influences to maintain accuracy and credibility. For instance, instead of saying 'Lack of funding was the contributing factor', state 'Lack of funding was a contributing factor, alongside poor management and insufficient marketing'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contributing factor" functions as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific element or influence that plays a role in bringing about a particular result or situation. Ludwig confirms the correctness and usability of this expression, as demonstrated in its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

25%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "contributing factor" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term to describe an element that influences a particular outcome. Ludwig confirms its correctness and widespread use across various fields. As evidenced by the examples, it appears most frequently in News & Media and scientific contexts. While it's crucial to acknowledge that a "contributing factor" is not the sole cause, and ensure proper contextualization, this phrase remains an effective tool for detailed analysis and explanation. Its versatility makes it suitable for both professional and general communication, although its usage leans towards formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

factor at play

This alternative indicates an active influence or element in a situation.

something that adds to

This alternative highlights the additive effect of the cause.

influential element

This alternative highlights the power or effect that something has on a situation.

one reason among others

This alternative emphasizes that the phrase is just a single reason among several reasons, which highlights that it's not the only reason.

causal agent

This alternative specifies a direct cause that helped create the final result.

a piece of the puzzle

Implies that the "contributing factor" is only part of the whole story.

a component

This alternative shows the role that a particular element plays in something bigger.

partial explanation

This focuses on how the factor clarifies or illuminates a complex situation, not necessarily causing it.

one aspect of the issue

This alternative underlines that the factor refers only to one aspect of the whole issue.

an underlying cause

This alternative indicates a fundamental reason for an issue or event.

FAQs

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

You can use "contributing factor" to describe an element that adds to a situation or outcome. For example: "Poor diet was a "contributing factor" to his health problems."

What are some alternatives to "contributing factor"?

Alternatives include "causal agent", "influential element", or "factor at play", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "the contributing factor" instead of "a contributing factor"?

Using "the contributing factor" implies it's the primary or only factor, which is often inaccurate. It's generally better to use "a contributing factor" to acknowledge other influences.

What is the difference between "contributing factor" and "root cause"?

"Contributing factor" refers to one of several elements influencing an outcome, while "root cause" refers to the fundamental reason something occurred. The "root cause" is the core issue, while "contributing factors" are elements that exacerbate the situation.