key part in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key part in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate an important role or function that something plays in a particular context or situation. Example: "The research team played a key part in developing the new vaccine that has saved countless lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I think Nigel played a very key part in that".

The Guardian - Sport

"Failure plays a key part in evolving vibrant entrepreneurial communities.

The Guardian

Disease played a key part in deciding who won wars.

The Guardian

Two holes played a key part in his struggle.

The Guardian - Sport

Duff also played a key part in Frank Bruno's career.

The Guardian - Sport

Black has played a key part in the US campaign for same-sex marriage.

The Guardian - Sport

Mönchengladbach had been strong enough without Celtic playing such a key part in their own downfall.

The Guardian - Sport

A meeting of SPL clubs on Monday could also play a key part in Rangers' future.

The Guardian - Sport

Paris played a key part in the recent UN resolution to restore order in Mali.

The Guardian

But a key part in the apparatus that transforms urine into drinkable water failed almost immediately.

The New York Times - Science

Multimedia, including photography and video, has played a key part in Freeman's online work.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "key part in", ensure that the context clearly establishes what the part is contributing to. For example, specify the project, process, or event where the role is significant.

Common error

Avoid using "key part in" without providing enough context. For instance, instead of saying "Technology played a key part in the project", specify how technology contributed: "Technology, specifically AI-driven analytics, played a "key part in" identifying market trends".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key part in" functions as a modifier, typically used to describe the significance or importance of a role, element, or factor within a given context. It is often followed by a noun phrase specifying the event, process, or situation in which the role is significant, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "key part in" is a versatile and commonly used expression to emphasize the significance of a role or element within a specific context. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It functions as a modifier, highlighting the importance of a component in achieving a desired outcome. While suitable for various registers, it is most frequently found in News & Media, Science and Formal & Business contexts. When using "key part in", ensure clear context to maximize its impact and effectiveness. Alternatives like "instrumental part in" or "essential role in" can add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

instrumental part in

Highlights the active role and influence something has in achieving a result.

pivotal role in

Emphasizes the turning point or critical nature of the contribution.

essential role in

Stresses the necessity and indispensability of the part played.

vital component of

Focuses on the idea that something is an element without which a thing cannot be.

significant factor in

Indicates that something is a noteworthy element influencing an outcome.

crucial aspect of

Highlights that some factor is extremely important.

central element in

Conveys that something is at the core or center of something else.

critical role in

Suggests a role that is of utmost importance and decisive.

major contributor to

Highlights the extent of some factor's participation.

leading factor in

Highlights the element's dominant influence.

FAQs

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

Use "key part in" to indicate that something plays a crucial or significant role in a particular process, event, or situation. For example: "Effective communication played a "key part in" the success of the negotiation".

What are some alternatives to "key part in"?

You can use alternatives like "instrumental part in", "pivotal role in", or "essential role in" to convey a similar meaning, emphasizing the importance or necessity of something.

Is it correct to say "key role in" instead of "key part in"?

Yes, "key role in" is a correct and often interchangeable alternative to "key part in". Both phrases convey the idea that something has a significant function or influence. Consider also using phrases like "significant factor in" or "crucial aspect of".

What's the difference between "key part in" and "minor part in"?

"Key part in" indicates a significant and crucial role, while "minor part in" suggests a less important or secondary role. The choice between the two depends on the degree of influence or importance you want to convey. Avoid using phrases like "major contributor to" if you want to highlight the opposite.