instrumental in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instrumental in" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone or something played a significant role in achieving a particular outcome or result. Example: "Her contributions were instrumental in the success of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Mr. Ackman was instrumental in the hire.

The New York Times

Tanya was instrumental in bringing people together.

The Guardian

And I was instrumental in that".

Independent

Mr. Ackman was instrumental in that move.

The New York Times

"He was instrumental in that.

The Guardian - Sport

John Lucas III was instrumental in the Raptors' success.

The New York Times - Sports

Others were instrumental in implementing the policy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Pope was instrumental in the third goal.

The New York Times - Sports

Connections were clearly instrumental in his rise.

The Guardian

Cannabis has been instrumental in my affliction.

The Guardian

Three lawmakers were instrumental in the measure.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "instrumental in", ensure that the sentence clearly states the outcome or result that the subject was instrumental in achieving. This provides context and emphasizes the impact of the contribution.

Common error

Avoid overstating the impact of something by using "instrumental in" when the contribution was only minor or peripheral. Reserve this phrase for situations where the contribution was truly significant and essential to the outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instrumental in" functions as an adjective phrase followed by a preposition, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate that the subject played a crucial or significant role in achieving a particular outcome. Ludwig provides several examples where this phrase highlights essential contributions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

22%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "instrumental in" is a versatile expression used to emphasize the significant role someone or something plays in achieving a particular outcome. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts. Its frequency is very common, appearing predominantly in News & Media and Scientific publications. When using "instrumental in", ensure you clearly state the result achieved to maximize clarity. Alternative phrases include "played a key role in" and "was crucial for". Remember to reserve this phrase for situations where the contribution was genuinely essential, avoiding overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

played a key role in

Emphasizes the importance and significance of the role.

was crucial for

Highlights the essential nature of the contribution.

was significant in

Focuses on the notable impact or effect.

was vital for

Stresses the indispensable quality of the contribution.

contributed significantly to

Highlights the extent and importance of the contribution.

was central to

Focuses on the core or essential nature of the role.

was essential to

Emphasizes the necessity and indispensability.

was fundamental to

Highlights the foundational importance of the contribution.

was a driving force behind

Suggests the person or thing actively propelled the outcome.

was a major factor in

Indicates a substantial influence on the result.

FAQs

How to use "instrumental in" in a sentence?

Use "instrumental in" to highlight the significant role someone or something played in achieving a specific outcome. For example, "Her research was instrumental in developing the new treatment."

What can I say instead of "instrumental in"?

You can use alternatives like "played a key role in", "was crucial for", or "contributed significantly to" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "instrumental to" instead of "instrumental in"?

While "instrumental to" might sound similar, "instrumental in" is the correct and more widely accepted usage. "Instrumental in" emphasizes the role in bringing about a result.

What's the difference between "instrumental in" and "helpful in"?

"Instrumental in" implies a critical and essential role, whereas "helpful in" suggests assistance or support that is not necessarily crucial. "Instrumental in" indicates a more significant impact.