is the defining factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is the defining factor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is the most important element or influence in a particular situation or context. Example: "In determining the success of a project, effective communication is the defining factor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

If physical distance between cities is the defining factor in remoteness, some of the greatest spaces occur in the Pacific.

The Guardian

"Cut is the defining factor for how much a stone sparkles and a well-cut stone will look larger, hide flaws and be more brilliant than a poorly cut one," he says.

The Guardian - Money

BOOK REVIEW The He Hormone Testosterone is the defining factor between men and women, and now that its use is growing, the differences between men and women seem indisputable.

The New York Times

The addition of Lori Goldston's cello – her stringed hum a nod to Carson's drone-metal past – is the defining factor, bringing depth, substance and emotion to an already rich mix, particularly on the chilling and beautiful Father Midnight.

The Guardian - Music

Mr. Diamond's book, Mr. Romney said, argues that the physical characteristics of the land account for the success of the people living there, while Mr. Landes's book, he continued, argues that culture is the defining factor.

The New York Times

In the speech, Mr. Romney mentioned books that had influenced his thinking about nations — particularly "The Wealth and Poverty of Nations," by David S. Landes, which, he said, argues that culture is the defining factor in determining the success of a society.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

But the limitations of the New Amsterdam chorus were the defining factor.

The New York Times

We believe this should be the defining factor in the decisions we make on behalf of our listeners".

The Guardian - Business

But not seeing eye-to-eye with Van Gaal proved to be the defining factor in Di María's departure.

The Guardian - Sport

Word-of-mouth will be the defining factor in whether Wire matters in a year's time.

The Guardian - Tech

"Saddam was the defining factor for all parties in Iraq, including for Kurds," one senior official said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is the defining factor" when you want to emphasize the single most important element that determines an outcome or characteristic. Ensure that the context clearly supports this assertion and that other contributing factors are secondary.

Common error

Avoid using "is the defining factor" when multiple elements significantly contribute to an outcome. Instead, acknowledge other influential aspects or use qualifiers like "a defining factor" to reflect a nuanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is the defining factor" functions as a predicate nominative, identifying the subject with the most crucial element. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. Examples show it determining success, brilliance, or a society's fate.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is the defining factor" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to highlight the most crucial element determining an outcome. Ludwig AI confirms that. It's prevalent in News & Media and Scientific contexts, indicating a professional tone. When using this phrase, ensure that the context genuinely supports the claim that the identified factor is indeed the most important, as overstating its significance can be misleading. Consider alternatives like "is the key determinant" or "is the most important aspect" for nuanced expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is the key determinant

Substitutes "defining factor" with "key determinant", emphasizing the decisive nature.

is the critical determinant

Similar to key determinant but more formal, stressing the importance.

is the crucial element

Uses "crucial element" to convey the essential and critical nature of the factor.

is the deciding influence

Focuses on the impact of the factor in making a decision.

is the most important aspect

Replaces "defining factor" with a more general term, highlighting the significance.

is the lynchpin

This alternative uses a metaphor to suggest that the factor is essential for everything else to function.

is the primary driver

Emphasizes the causal role of the factor in influencing an outcome.

is the main reason

Indicates the principal cause or explanation for something.

is the central point

Highlights the core essence of the matter under consideration.

is paramount

Highlights something as supreme or dominant.

FAQs

How can I use "is the defining factor" in a sentence?

You can use "is the defining factor" to emphasize the most important element that determines an outcome. For example, "Effective communication "is the defining factor" in a successful project."

What phrases are similar to "is the defining factor"?

Similar phrases include "is the key determinant", "is the most important aspect", or "is the crucial element", which all highlight the primary importance of something.

Is it always appropriate to use "is the defining factor"?

While grammatically correct, using "is the defining factor" is most appropriate when one element overwhelmingly determines the outcome. If multiple factors are at play, consider using phrases like "a defining factor" or specifying multiple key elements to maintain accuracy.

What's the difference between "is a defining factor" and "is the defining factor"?

"Is a defining factor" implies that there are other factors of similar importance, while ""is the defining factor"" suggests that the factor being discussed is the most important one, overshadowing other potential influences.