determinative factor

USAGE SUMMARY

'determinative factor' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to something which has an important influence on the outcome of a situation. For example, "The cost of materials was a determinative factor in deciding the final price of the product."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

In Parents Involved in Community Schools v. Seattle School District No. 1 (2007), the Court ruled that race could not be the determinative factor in determining to which public schools parents may transfer their children.

Wikipedia

"What is a significant but not determinative factor in other states," Professor Dow of the University of Houston said, "basically in Texas is the whole ball of wax".

The New York Times

And the evidence of misogyny in the press and elsewhere is irrefutable, even if it was not the determinative factor in the race.

The New York Times

The court held that the plaintiff must prove that the retaliation was not just a motivating factor in a negative action like a demotion but the determinative factor.

The New York Times

For the Court, the determinative factor is again that the substantiality of the use was inappropriate in relation to the prepublication [p*602] timing of that use.

Cornell University

Executive agreements become of constitutional significance when they constitute a determinative factor of future foreign policy and hence of the country's destiny.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

A sensitivity analysis on the predictive models is performed and a new metric, criticality index, is devised to identify the importance ranking of the determinative factors.

Expert Systems with Applications

It employs three machine learning methods (support vector machines, neural networks, and decision trees) and a statistical technique (multiple linear regression) to reveal the underlying relationships between the overall WIS usability and its determinative factors.

Expert Systems with Applications

As previously reported by post (Reftel), the Eastern Province economy is facing severe industrial expansion limits, and despite Aramco's willingness to invest up to 50 billion USD to achieve the 2009 goal, availability of labor, materials and housing may end up as determinative factors.

The Guardian - Business

No. 83, 90th Cong., 1st Sess., 37 (1967); Patry 477, n. 4. [W]hether a use referred to in the first sentence of section 107 is a fair use in a particular case will depend upon the application of the determinative factors, including those mentioned in the second sentence.

Cornell University

In addition, the influence of the Al2O3 content was investigated on the size and morphology of the composite powders which are determinative factors for particles as reinforcement of the composite matrix.

International Journal of Industrial Chemistry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "determinative factor", ensure it is followed by a clear explanation of how it influences the outcome. This provides context and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting the "determinative factor" as the only influence, unless explicitly supported by evidence. Acknowledge other contributing factors to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "determinative factor" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It identifies the crucial element that decides or strongly influences a particular outcome or situation, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "determinative factor" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as Ludwig AI confirms, denoting a key element that significantly influences an outcome. While not exceedingly common, it's frequently found in scientific, academic, and news contexts, signifying its importance in formal discourse. To enhance clarity, provide context explaining how it influences the outcome. Avoid overstating its importance by acknowledging other contributing influences. Alternatives like "decisive element" or "critical component" can provide similar emphasis. The phrase serves to highlight importance when examining cause-and-effect relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decisive element

Emphasizes the finality of the factor in determining the outcome.

major determinant

A more formal alternative, emphasizing the factor's role in deciding the result.

critical component

Highlights the essential and indispensable nature of the factor.

key consideration

Suggests the factor is a crucial aspect to think about.

primary driver

Indicates the factor is the main force behind a particular result.

most important aspect

Focuses on the relative significance of the factor compared to others.

central influence

Highlights the power the factor has on something.

essential ingredient

Implies that the factor is necessary for a successful outcome.

fundamental reason

Points to the factor as the underlying cause or justification.

governing dynamic

Focuses on a factor in its role of constantly influencing a system.

FAQs

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

Use "determinative factor" to highlight the most important element that influences an outcome. For example, "The level of investment was a determinative factor in the company's success."

What is a good substitute for "determinative factor"?

Alternatives to "determinative factor" include "decisive element", "critical component", or "key consideration", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a determinative factor" or should it be "the determinative factor"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "the determinative factor" implies it is the single most important factor, while "a determinative factor" suggests it is one of several important factors.

What's the difference between "determinative factor" and "important factor"?

"Determinative factor" implies a greater degree of influence than "important factor". A "determinative factor" significantly shapes the outcome, while an "important factor" simply contributes to it.