key role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'key role' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an important role or position that is necessary for the success or completion of a task or project. For example, "Rob plays a key role in the company's success; he coordinates all of our major projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Key Role in C.I.A.

The New York Times

Don't councils have a key role?

BBC

They nonetheless play a key role.

The Economist

Their key role is not broadcasting material.

The Economist

Architecture played a key role.

The Guardian - Arts

Government has a key role.

The Guardian

"Everybody plays a key role.

The New York Times - Sports

Defectors play a key role.

The New York Times

Princetonians played a key role.

Princeton University

The Health Ministry has played a key role.

Independent

The Chevrolet Volt will play a key role.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the importance of someone's involvement in a project, use "key role" to directly highlight their significance. For example, "She played a "key role" in securing the funding."

Common error

Avoid using "key role" without specifying what makes the role important. Always provide context or details to show why the role is crucial, rather than just stating it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key role" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage, signifying a significant or crucial function. Examples show it describing the importance of individuals, concepts, or entities in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "key role" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to emphasize the significance of a person, concept, or entity within a particular context. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is widely accepted and employed across various domains, including news, academia, and business. Its neutral yet professional tone makes it suitable for formal communication, while related phrases like "crucial part" and "vital function" offer alternative ways to convey similar meanings. When using "key role", it's best practice to provide specific details about the nature of the role and its impact to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

crucial part

Emphasizes the essential nature of the role; it cannot be removed without affecting the whole.

vital function

Highlights the necessity of the role for the survival or proper functioning of something.

pivotal role

Emphasizes that the role is a turning point or central to what happens.

significant position

Focuses on the importance and influence of the role within a structure or system.

essential element

Stresses that the role is a basic and indispensable component.

central function

Highlights that the role is at the heart of operations or activities.

critical aspect

Underscores that the role is a decisive factor in the outcome or success.

major contribution

Highlights the impact and value that the role brings to a particular endeavor.

primary responsibility

Focuses on the main duties and obligations associated with the role.

cornerstone

Implies the role is a fundamental basis or support upon which everything else depends.

FAQs

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

You can use "key role" to describe someone or something that has significant importance in a particular situation. For example, "Technology plays a "key role" in modern education."

What are some alternatives to using "key role"?

Alternatives to "key role" include "crucial part", "vital function", or "significant position" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "important role" or "key role"?

"Key role" typically suggests a more decisive or critical function compared to simply an "important role". The choice depends on the degree of impact you want to convey.

What makes a role a "key role" rather than just a regular role?

A "key role" is essential for the success or proper functioning of something. It often involves significant responsibilities and impact, setting it apart from less influential or routine roles.