key element of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key element of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to highlight an important part or component of a larger concept, idea, or system. Example: "Communication is a key element of successful teamwork."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The key element of humor is surprise.

The New York Times

She quickly made sustainability a key element of her platform.

The Guardian

Elation that I understood this key element of my identity.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

These alliances were a key element of the Clinton plan.

The New Yorker

That's a key element of our marking technology.

The New York Times

His celebrity will be a key element of the film.

The Guardian - Film

It should be a key element of life-long learning.

The Guardian

Humour is a key element of your work.

The Guardian

The key element of the carbon price is the cap.

The Guardian

Parental involvement is a key element of Edison's programs.

The New York Times

"Baroque is a key element of the Versace history.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "key element of", ensure that the element you are describing truly is a central and necessary part of the larger concept. Avoid using it for minor or tangential aspects to maintain clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "key element of" repetitively within a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "essential aspect", "crucial component", or "fundamental part" to prevent your writing from sounding monotonous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key element of" functions as a noun phrase modifier, highlighting the significance of a particular component or aspect within a larger context. It is used to emphasize the importance of a specific part. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "key element of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for emphasizing the importance of a particular component or aspect. According to Ludwig AI, this expression is correct and adaptable across various registers, from neutral news reports to professional business communications. Its prevalence in authoritative sources like The Guardian and The New York Times underscores its reliability. While versatile, avoid overuse by incorporating synonyms like "essential aspect" or "crucial component" to enhance writing clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

crucial component of

Replaces 'element' with 'component' and 'key' with 'crucial', emphasizing the essential nature of something.

essential aspect of

Substitutes 'element' with 'aspect' and 'key' with 'essential', focusing on a necessary feature.

fundamental part of

Replaces 'element' with 'part' and 'key' with 'fundamental', highlighting the basic and necessary nature.

vital ingredient of

Uses 'ingredient' metaphorically to represent a necessary component.

critical factor in

Substitutes 'element' with 'factor' and 'key' with 'critical', emphasizing the decisive importance.

cornerstone of

Uses 'cornerstone' metaphorically to represent a fundamental element on which something is based.

central feature of

Replaces 'element' with 'feature' and 'key' with 'central', highlighting the main characteristic.

primary component of

Synonymous to "key element of" but putting major emphasis on the element itself

indispensable aspect of

Replaces 'key' with 'indispensable', increasing the emphasis on the necessity of the element.

major facet of

Substitutes 'element' with 'facet' and 'key' with 'major', focusing on a significant part of something.

FAQs

How can I use "key element of" in a sentence?

You can use "key element of" to highlight an important aspect or component of something. For example, "Communication is a "key element of" successful teamwork."

What are some alternatives to "key element of"?

Alternatives include "essential aspect of", "crucial component of", or "fundamental part of", depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "a key and essential element of"?

Yes, using both "key" and "essential" is redundant because they have similar meanings. Choose one or the other to avoid unnecessary repetition.

What is the difference between "key element of" and "important factor in"?

"Key element of" generally refers to a constituent part, while "important factor in" suggests something that contributes to a result. For example, teamwork is a "key element of" a project's success, while motivation might be an "important factor in" individual performance.