key variable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key variable" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts such as research, statistics, or analysis to refer to an important factor that influences an outcome. Example: "In our study, the key variable affecting the results was the participants' age."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The key variable was execution.

The Guardian

The key variable is talent".

The New York Times

It is a key variable here.

The Guardian - Opinion

Obviously the key variable is the audience.

The Guardian

Assign reasonable values to each key variable.

Harvard Business Review

Spoken language was the key variable, Dr. Hart said.

The New York Times

Some suggest that the key variable is rising barometric pressure.

Harvard University

Indeed, I doubt whether "character" is really the key variable here at all.

The Guardian - Opinion

The key variable for individual success isn't the country, it's the person.

The New Yorker

Soil moisture is a key variable in hydrological processes.

Journal of Hydrology

"The bottom line is that temperature is the key variable, but temperature alone didn't cause it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Support your claim that a variable is 'key' with evidence or reasoning to demonstrate its significance.

Common error

Avoid labeling a variable as "key variable" without sufficient justification. Ensure it truly has a significant impact or influence, as overuse can dilute the term's meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key variable" functions as a noun phrase, identifying the most important factor in a particular context. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's commonly used in analytical or research settings to denote a crucial element.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "key variable" is a frequently used noun phrase to denote the most important factor in a given situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears often in news, scientific, and business contexts. When employing this phrase, clearly define the variable and justify its significance, avoiding overuse. Consider alternatives like "primary factor" or "crucial element" depending on your specific meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary factor

Replaces 'variable' with 'factor', emphasizing importance.

crucial element

Substitutes 'key' with 'crucial' and 'variable' with 'element', highlighting the essential nature.

essential component

Similar to 'crucial element', but uses 'component' to suggest a part of a larger system.

critical factor

Emphasizes the importance of the variable, suggesting it is decisive.

main determinant

Focuses on the variable's role in influencing or deciding an outcome.

significant influence

Shifts the focus from the variable itself to its impact.

major consideration

Highlights that the variable needs careful thought and attention.

principal aspect

Emphasizes the variable's role as a leading feature.

core element

Suggests the variable is central and fundamental.

vital aspect

Highlights the variable's importance for the success or existence of something.

FAQs

How to use "key variable" in a sentence?

You can use "key variable" to identify the most important factor influencing a situation, such as: "The "key variable" in this experiment was temperature."

What can I say instead of "key variable"?

Alternatives include "primary factor", "crucial element", or "essential component" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "key variable" or "key variables"?

"Key variable" refers to a single important factor, while "key variables" refers to multiple important factors. Use the plural form when discussing more than one significant variable.

What's the difference between "key variable" and "important variable"?

"Key variable" suggests that the variable is the most significant, whereas "important variable" simply indicates that the variable is of considerable value or consequence, but not necessarily the most critical.