is an underlying factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is an underlying factor" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a cause or reason that contributes to a particular situation or outcome. Example: "The lack of funding is an underlying factor in the project's failure."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

In fact, speed is an underlying factor in tackling waste as the crop moves along the chain.

The Guardian

Envy is an underlying factor in the extreme ambivalence American Indians feel regarding winning and athletic stardom on the reservation.

The New York Times - Sports

John McCain's age (he is 72) is an underlying factor with voters.

The Economist

Recently its sales from stents have shrunk as rivals have brought out ever more innovative devices.Leading the way?Nicolas Sarkozy sharpened his attack on speculation in commodities markets, which he insists is an underlying factor in pushing up prices for raw materials.

The Economist

The oxidative stress is an underlying factor for adverse biological effects caused by NPs of TiO2 and ZnO.

Nanoscale Research Letters

We associate the reorientation with a shuffle and shear mechanism and suggest that shear stress is an underlying factor for the anisotropic phase transformation sensitivity.

Acta Materialia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

An altered cell membrane is suggested to be an underlying factor based on the type of neuromuscular findings.

Journal of Psychiatric Research

While observed gender differences can not be explained by differences in age, CHD prevalence, and underlying risk factors, the less typical symptom presentation in women might be an underlying factor.

BMC Family Practice

While these differences can not be explained by differences in age, CHD prevalence, and underlying risk factors, the less typical symptom presentation in women might be an underlying factor.

BMC Family Practice

In a study published Monday in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers wrote that poor motor function may be an underlying factor in obesity and physical inactivity, both of which contribute to underachievement in school.

The New York Times

Zhang Lifan, a liberal scholar and historian, goes so far as to argue that the retreat of the private sector was an underlying factor behind the collapse of the Qing Dynasty in 1911 and the 1966-1976 Cultural Revolution.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is an underlying factor", ensure you clearly explain the relationship between the factor and the outcome or situation it influences. Providing specific examples strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting a factor as the only underlying cause when multiple factors are at play. Qualify your statement to acknowledge other potential influences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is an underlying factor" functions as a predicate nominative, linking a subject to a noun phrase that renames or describes it. It identifies a fundamental element contributing to a situation or outcome, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Unknown/unmatched sources

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is an underlying factor" is a grammatically sound expression used to identify a fundamental cause or influence contributing to a specific situation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and common usage across diverse fields, especially science, news, and formal business contexts. While alternatives like "is a contributing element" exist, "is an underlying factor" emphasizes a deeper, more foundational role. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the relationship between the factor and its effect and acknowledge the possibility of other contributing factors to avoid oversimplification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is a contributing element

Focuses on the element's contribution rather than its foundational nature.

is a causative agent

Highlights the element's role in causing a specific outcome.

is a key driver

Emphasizes the element's power to propel or influence events.

is a fundamental reason

Stresses the element's role as a basic and essential cause.

is a root cause

Indicates the element is the primary and original source of a problem.

is a primary influence

Highlights the element's significant impact on something.

is an integral component

Focuses on the element being an essential part of a larger system.

is a significant determinant

Emphasizes the element's power in deciding or influencing an outcome.

is part of the explanation

Suggests the element contributes to a broader understanding.

is an important aspect

Highlights the element's relevance and significance.

FAQs

How can I use "is an underlying factor" in a sentence?

You can use "is an underlying factor" to indicate a fundamental cause or influence. For example: "Lack of education "is an underlying factor" in poverty."

What are some alternatives to "is an underlying factor"?

Alternatives include "is a contributing element", "is a key driver", or "is a root cause", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "is an underlying factor" or "is a contributing factor"?

Both are correct, but "is an underlying factor" suggests a more fundamental or foundational role, while "is a contributing factor" simply indicates it's one of several elements involved.

What's the difference between a 'cause' and something that "is an underlying factor"?

A 'cause' directly leads to an effect. Something that "is an underlying factor" may not directly cause the effect, but it creates conditions that make the effect more likely.