determining factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "determining factor" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that helps to make a decision or to determine the outcome of an event. For example, "The availability of funding was the determining factor in whether the project could continue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Elevation is a determining factor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I'm the sole determining factor".

The New York Times

Will that experience be the determining factor?

The New York Times

But that was not a determining factor.

The New York Times - Sports

But Kidd was the determining factor.

The New York Times - Sports

That is always the determining factor.

The Guardian - Sport

"Tiger's presence was not the determining factor," McManus said.

The New York Times - Sports

The unexpected, the unanticipated must be the determining factor.

The New Yorker

Which candidate that trend benefits may be a determining factor.

The New York Times

Geography is a strong determining factor in their fates.

The New Yorker

So politics and geography will be the determining factor".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, follow "determining factor" with precise evidence or data to support its role. For example: 'The availability of resources was the determining factor, as demonstrated by the project's success after securing additional funding'.

Common error

Avoid presenting the "determining factor" as the only influence when other elements also contribute. Acknowledge contributing elements to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "determining factor" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a crucial element influencing a decision, outcome, or situation. Ludwig AI shows numerous examples highlighting its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "determining factor" is a noun phrase used to emphasize a crucial element influencing a decision or outcome. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and very common, appearing frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using "determining factor", ensure you are clear about what is being determined and how the factor influences the outcome, providing supporting evidence where possible. While there are alternative phrases like "decisive element" or "key influence", "determining factor" provides a clear and widely understood way to highlight a pivotal element.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decisive element

Focuses on the element that settles a matter, rather than a broader factor.

key influence

Highlights the power to affect something without necessarily being the final deciding point.

critical aspect

Emphasizes importance but may not be the sole deciding factor.

main consideration

Highlights the primary element taken into account, possibly among others.

central point

Focuses on the core issue, rather than a cause or influence.

primary driver

Indicates a force that propels an outcome, suggesting movement or progress.

root cause

Identifies the fundamental reason behind something, often used in problem-solving.

underlying reason

Highlights the less obvious or visible cause.

essential ingredient

Suggests something indispensable, but as part of a larger mix.

cornerstone

Highlights a fundamental base or support on which something depends.

FAQs

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

Use "determining factor" to emphasize a pivotal element influencing a decision or outcome. For example: "The level of engagement was the "determining factor" in the project's success."

What are some alternatives to "determining factor"?

Consider using phrases like "decisive element", "key influence", or "critical aspect" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "the only determining factor"?

While grammatically correct, stating "the only determining factor" may be an overstatement unless you have conclusive evidence that no other factors played a role. It's often more accurate to say "a major determining factor" or "the primary determining factor".

What's the difference between "determining factor" and "contributing factor"?

"Determining factor" suggests a pivotal role in deciding an outcome, whereas "contributing factor" implies a less decisive, supportive role. The "determining factor" is more significant in influencing the final result.