leading factor

USAGE SUMMARY

"leading factor" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a main or significant cause or influence in a situation. For example, "The leading factor in the success of the company is its innovative approach to customer service."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Price could also be a leading factor.

The Washington Post

Most survey respondents cited poor pay as a leading factor.

The Washington Post

Tourism is a leading factor in the city's economy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The hormone lowers LDL cholesterol, but promotes clotting, a leading factor in heart attacks and strokes.

The New York Times

Women's return to work outside the home is the leading factor for early weaning⁵.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Energy traders said a tropical storm in the Gulf of Mexico was the leading factor behind the rally.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

But analysis by Deemer and her colleagues shows that the latitude and depth of water are not leading factors.

The Guardian

There are other reasons, but life balance, and mental and emotional fatigue are leading factors in teachers leaving the profession.

Columbia University

This is significant because public-health studies have shown diesel pollutants to be leading factors in both asthma and premature deaths from respiratory diseases.

The New York Times - Magazine

Habitat destruction, characterized by patch loss and patch fragmentation, has been recognized as one of leading factors driving species loss.

Ecological Modelling

Healthcare cost is one of the leading factors behind bankruptcy.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "leading factor", ensure it's supported by evidence or data to strengthen your argument. Avoid using it loosely without clear justification.

Common error

Avoid presenting "leading factor" as the only factor when multiple influences are at play. Acknowledge other contributing elements for a balanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leading factor" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the most significant cause, influence, or element in a particular situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a commonly used and widely accepted expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "leading factor" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that identifies the primary cause or influence in a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its acceptability and utility are well-established. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral to formal register. When employing "leading factor", ensure that the identified factor is well-supported by evidence, and acknowledge other contributing influences for a balanced perspective. Alternatives such as "primary driver" or "main contributor" can add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary driver

This phrase emphasizes the active role of the factor in propelling a specific outcome.

main contributor

Focuses on the factor's role in adding to a result or situation.

key determinant

Highlights the factor's decisive influence on a specific outcome.

principal cause

Emphasizes the factor as the primary reason behind an event or condition.

major influence

Indicates the significant impact the factor has on a situation or outcome.

chief reason

Highlights the factor as the foremost rationale or justification.

critical element

Highlights the factor's indispensable role in achieving a particular result.

prime mover

Suggests the factor initiates or drives a process or change.

central aspect

Emphasizes the factor's fundamental or core importance to the whole.

dominant force

Highlights the factor's overriding or controlling influence.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "leading factor" in a sentence?

Use "leading factor" to pinpoint the most significant cause or influence in a given situation. For example, "Economic instability was the "leading factor" in the country's political unrest."

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "leading factor"?

Consider using phrases like "primary driver", "main contributor", or "key determinant" for variety and emphasis.

Is it appropriate to use "leading factor" in formal writing?

Yes, "leading factor" is suitable for formal writing as it is a clear and professional way to express a primary influence. However, ensure that its usage aligns with the tone and context of the writing.

What's the difference between "leading factor" and "important factor"?

"Leading factor" indicates the most significant influence, while "important factor" simply suggests that something is of considerable relevance but not necessarily the primary driver. The former carries more weight.