key influence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key influence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant factor or element that affects a situation, decision, or outcome. Example: "The key influence in her decision to move was the job offer she received."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His faith was a key influence.

The Guardian

Mao Zedong was another key influence.

The Guardian

I think Broadcast News is a key influence.

The Guardian - Film

Another key influence has been the experience of KIPP Schools.

The Guardian - Opinion

Neal Abberley has been the key influence on my career.

Independent

But he was also another key influence on the Impressionists.

The New York Times - Arts

Lars von Trier declared that it was a key influence on his latest movie, Dogville.

The Guardian

That course was the key influence in Michael becoming a laboratory scientist.

The Guardian

Track record of key influence on regulation and public service issues for more than a decade.

The Guardian

He cites Tran Anh Hung's 1995 film Cyclo as a key influence.

The Guardian

It was certainly a key influence on my work with Duran Duran".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "key influence", ensure that you clearly articulate what is being influenced. For example, instead of just stating "Technology was a key influence", specify "Technology was a key influence on the company's marketing strategy."

Common error

Avoid using "key influence" when the factor is only minor or secondary. Reserve it for truly significant and impactful elements to maintain credibility and accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key influence" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies something of major importance that has an effect on someone or something else. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is acceptable and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

22%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "key influence" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote a significant factor affecting an outcome, decision, or characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Science, indicating its suitability for both journalistic and academic contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being influenced and avoid overstating the significance of the factor. Alternatives like ""major impact"" or ""significant effect"" can be used for variety, though "key influence" itself remains a reliable and effective choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

principal influence

Similar to "key influence", but emphasizes the hierarchical importance.

major impact

Focuses on the effect or result of something being a primary factor.

vital factor

Highlights the essential and necessary nature of something.

significant effect

Highlights the notable consequence or outcome resulting from a particular cause.

major determinant

Focuses on the aspect that predominantly defines the outcome.

primary factor

Emphasizes the role of something as being the most important element contributing to a situation.

leading contributor

Points out something that actively adds or plays a significant part in an outcome.

central force

Indicates the core element driving or shaping something.

dominant driver

Highlights the prevailing or controlling factor that propels something forward.

critical determinant

Emphasizes something that decisively affects or determines an outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "key influence" in a sentence?

Use "key influence" to point out a primary or significant factor that affects something. For example: "His upbringing was a key influence on his career choices."

What are some alternatives to "key influence"?

You can use alternatives like "major impact", "significant effect", or "primary factor" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "key influence" or "significant influence"?

Both "key influence" and "significant influence" are correct. "Key influence" emphasizes the crucial or central nature of the influence, while "significant influence" emphasizes the notable or substantial impact. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Can "key influence" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "key influence" is appropriate for formal writing, including academic papers, business reports, and news articles. It's a clear and professional way to indicate a major factor.