dominant reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dominant reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the primary or most significant factor influencing a decision or outcome. Example: "The dominant reason for the project's success was the team's dedication and hard work."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The dominant reason is the resolution of the fiscal cliff.

The New York Times

The carburization-induced compressive residual stress was the dominant reason for the improvement of SCC resistance.

Surface and Coatings Technology

But the dominant reason is that the number of households with children living at home is on a persistent decline.

The New York Times

Further analysis indicates that less centrifugation is the dominant reason for significantly improved post-cryopreservation cell viability.

Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical

The right coronary artery flow characteristics were found to be the dominant reason for Cabrol graft failure.

Medical Hypotheses

The dominant reason for acting on climate change is not that it would make us better off.

MIT Technology Review

This finding is probably the dominant reason for the increased TCP phase capability of Ru-containing alloys.

Acta Materialia

The dominant reason to limit the power handling capability is undesirable channel formation (leakage current) on off-state FEETs in the event of large signal input.

Solid-State Electronics

The dominant reason for the larger MR ratio in C60 based spin valves compared to that in C70 based devices is analyzed.

Carbon

Seeing other people die was the "dominant" reason for that, according to the study, which was based on large demographic surveys and interviews with more than 200 Zimbabweans.

The New York Times

2013: STOCKHOLM - The IPCC says it's "extremely likely" that human influence is the dominant reason for warming temperatures recorded since the mid-20th century.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "dominant reason", ensure it accurately reflects the most influential factor. Avoid using it if other factors are equally significant.

Common error

Avoid using "dominant reason" when several factors contribute significantly. Instead, acknowledge multiple contributing factors for a more balanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dominant reason" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. It identifies and emphasizes the primary cause or justification for a particular event, situation, or decision. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase effectively highlights the key factor at play.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

56%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dominant reason" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to pinpoint the primary cause or justification. Ludwig's analysis indicates that the phrase is most commonly found in scientific and news media contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is correct and versatile for various writing purposes. Remember to use this phrase judiciously, ensuring it accurately represents the most influential factor. Consider alternatives like "main reason" or "chief cause" for nuanced expression. Using this guidance will enable you to effectively communicate the most significant factors in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary reason

Focuses on the order of importance, highlighting that it is the first reason.

main reason

Emphasizes that it's the principal or chief reason.

chief cause

Highlights the causal aspect, indicating it's the principal cause.

leading cause

Implies it's the cause that influences or directs the outcome the most.

major factor

Broader term suggesting a significant element contributing to the outcome.

principal factor

Highlights its role as the most important element.

key reason

Suggests it's a crucial reason without necessarily being the only one.

most significant factor

Emphasizes the weight or importance of the factor.

overriding reason

Implies that this reason is more important than any other consideration.

fundamental reason

Highlights its role as the underlying or foundational reason.

FAQs

How can I use "dominant reason" in a sentence?

Use "dominant reason" to highlight the primary cause or justification for something. For instance, "The "primary reason" for the project's delay was a lack of funding".

What are some alternatives to "dominant reason"?

You can use alternatives such as "main reason", "chief cause", or "leading factor" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to use "dominant reason" in formal writing?

Yes, "dominant reason" is appropriate for formal writing. However, consider the context and choose the alternative that best fits the tone and level of formality. For example, "principal factor" might be more suitable in some cases.

What's the difference between "dominant reason" and "main reason"?

While both phrases are similar, "dominant reason" suggests a more overwhelming influence, while "main reason" simply indicates the primary or most important reason.