crucial factor

USAGE SUMMARY

"crucial factor" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a thing or idea that is important and necessary for achieving a desired outcome. For example, "Time is a crucial factor in achieving success in business."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Loneliness is another crucial factor.

Independent

Time is a crucial factor.

The Guardian

Location was a crucial factor.

The New York Times

Time is the crucial factor.

The New Yorker

The crucial factor is age.

The New York Times

The crucial factor was the setting.

The New York Times

Peer support is another crucial factor.

Independent

"The crucial factor is not being doomed".

The Economist

Cost is also a crucial factor.

The New York Times - Arts

Globalisation is the crucial factor here.

The Guardian - Opinion

And it has one other crucial factor.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "key determinant" or "essential element" to avoid repetition and add nuance to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "crucial factor" for elements that are merely helpful but not absolutely necessary. Reserve this phrase for factors without which the desired outcome cannot be achieved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "crucial factor" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it identifies a specific element deemed essential for a particular outcome or situation. For example, "Time is the crucial factor."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "crucial factor" is a widely used and grammatically sound expression for denoting an element of utmost importance. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts. It appears most frequently in news and media, science, and formal business writing, indicating its broad applicability across different registers. To enhance writing, consider articulating why a factor is crucial and varying vocabulary with synonyms like "key determinant" or "essential element". Avoid overuse by reserving the phrase for truly indispensable elements. Understanding its function and usage patterns allows for more effective and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key determinant

Focuses on the determining aspect, emphasizing that the factor directly influences the outcome.

essential element

Highlights the element's necessity, stressing that something cannot be complete without it.

vital component

Emphasizes that the factor is necessary for the viability or proper functioning of something.

critical aspect

Highlights that the factor is extremely important and could have serious consequences if not addressed.

indispensable variable

Stresses that the factor is unavoidable or absolutely necessary.

primary consideration

Indicates that the factor is given the most weight or attention when making a decision.

major influence

Highlights that the factor has significant power to affect something.

significant contributor

Focuses on the factor's role in adding to or helping bring about a result.

paramount feature

Highlights the factor's supreme importance, often indicating it outranks all others.

cornerstone of success

Emphasizes that the factor is fundamental and essential for achieving a positive outcome.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "crucial factor" in a sentence?

To effectively use "crucial factor", clearly state the factor and explain its direct impact on the outcome you're discussing. For example, "Time is a "crucial factor" in project management; without proper time management, deadlines will be missed."

What are some alternatives to using "crucial factor" in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "key determinant", "essential element", or "vital component".

Is it redundant to say "very crucial factor"?

Yes, it is redundant. The word "crucial" already implies a high level of importance. Using "very" adds unnecessary emphasis. Stick to simply ""crucial factor"".

What is the difference between "crucial factor" and "important factor"?

While both indicate significance, ""crucial factor"" implies that the factor is absolutely necessary and decisive, whereas "important factor" simply means it holds considerable value but isn't necessarily indispensable.