is a major element of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is a major element of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is an important or significant part of a larger whole or concept. Example: "Trust is a major element of successful teamwork, as it fosters collaboration and open communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

"The HPC project is a major element of the group's … strategy.

The Guardian

Its multifariousness and thematic disorder is a major element of its appeal.

The New Yorker

Flavour guides feeding behaviour, and is a major element of emotional and aesthetic life.

The Economist

According to Freud, the superego is a major element of personality that is formed by the child's incorporation of moral values through parental approval or punishment.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sulfur dioxide, or SO2, is a major element of the exhaust from coal-burning power plants and a component of acid rain.

The New York Times - Science

Today, the 100 per cent clean energy target is a major element of the deal in the final stages of negotiation in Paris.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

It was clear, though, that bridge would be a major element of her life.

The New York Times - Arts

It would be "a major element of the northern line of attack which the US now judge as essential".

The Guardian

In pre-Columbian times, textiles from Andean weaving were a major element of exchange, ritual, and social status.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The report itself, however, says nothing about the sabotage effort, which has been a major element of the American strategy.

The New York Times

Tony Blair's celebrated intention to be tough on crime and tough on the causes of crime was a major element of New Labour's rise to prominence.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "is a major element of", ensure that the context clearly defines the larger system or concept to which the element belongs. This provides clarity and emphasizes the element's role.

Common error

Avoid using "is a major element of" when the element is only marginally important. Instead, reserve it for elements that genuinely have a significant impact or contribution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a major element of" functions as a predicate nominative, identifying a subject as an important part of a larger whole. Ludwig shows its use across various domains, emphasizing its capacity to pinpoint crucial components.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is a major element of" serves to highlight the importance of a component within a larger system, and is considered grammatically correct. Ludwig shows it is commonly used across diverse contexts, particularly in science and news, but it is important to reserve it for elements that genuinely have a significant impact. Using alternative phrases such as "is a key component of" can provide variety and nuance in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is a key component of

Replaces 'major element' with 'key component', emphasizing essentiality.

is a significant part of

Substitutes 'major element' with 'significant part', highlighting importance.

constitutes a vital aspect of

Uses 'constitutes' and 'vital aspect' for a more formal tone.

plays a crucial role in

Focuses on the action or effect the element has, using 'crucial role'.

is fundamental to

Emphasizes the foundational nature of the element.

is central to

Highlights the element's position of importance or focus.

is integral to

Indicates that the element is necessary for completeness.

forms a cornerstone of

Presents the element as a fundamental support or basis.

is an essential feature of

Replaces 'major element' with 'essential feature', stressing necessity.

figures prominently in

Highlights the element's noticeable and important presence.

FAQs

How can I use "is a major element of" in a sentence?

The phrase "is a major element of" is used to highlight the importance or significance of something within a larger context. For instance, "Communication "is a major element of" effective teamwork."

What are some alternatives to "is a major element of"?

You can use alternatives like "is a key component of", "is a significant part of", or "plays a crucial role in" depending on the specific context.

Is it more formal to say "is a major element of" or "is a key part of"?

"Is a major element of" and "is a key part of" are both suitable for formal contexts. The choice depends on the specific tone and emphasis you want to convey. "Major element" might be slightly more emphatic.

When is it inappropriate to use "is a major element of"?

Avoid using "is a major element of" when the element you're describing has only a minor or negligible impact. It's best reserved for cases where the element truly has a substantial role or influence.