main component

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "main component" is correct and widely used in written English.
You can use it when referring to the most important element in a system, structure, or group of things. For example, you could say "The main component of this course is learning how to write an essay."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What is the main component of Clz?

Harvard University

Methane is the main component of natural gas.

The Guardian

Cassiterite is the main component of tin oxide.

The Guardian - Opinion

What is the main component of MSG? x.

The New York Times

Keratin is the main component of reptilian scales.

Britannica

Andesite contains SiO2 as the main component.

Construction and Building Materials

Methane, the main component of natural gas, is highly flammable.

The New York Times - Science

The other main component of the Bush plan involves "health savings accounts".

The New York Times

The main component of the campaign is commercials that mock consumer focus groups.

The New York Times

In Nassau the agency's main component is the Nassau University Medical Center.

The New York Times

And nitrogen, which is the main component of air, is also dangerous.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "main component", ensure it is followed by a clear and specific description of what that component is, providing context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "main component" when the element is only marginally more important than others. Opt for terms like "significant component" or "contributing factor" if the element is not truly primary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "main component" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the most important or fundamental part of something. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "main component" is a versatile and frequently used term in English, denoting the most important element within a given context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Analysis of numerous examples reveals its prevalence across various fields, including science, news, and business. While alternatives like "key element" and "primary constituent" exist, "main component" clearly and effectively identifies the principal element. To use it effectively, be sure to accurately identify the true main component and provide sufficient context for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key element

This term emphasizes the importance and necessity of the element.

primary constituent

This phrase is more formal and highlights the compositional aspect.

central feature

This term focuses on the element's role as a defining characteristic.

core aspect

This refers to the fundamental and indispensable part of something.

principal ingredient

This is often used when discussing mixtures or recipes, emphasizing what it's made from.

chief factor

Highlights the element's role in causing an outcome or influencing a situation.

dominant part

This indicates the most prominent or influential element.

essential ingredient

This emphasizes the absolute necessity of the component.

fundamental element

Highlights that the element is basic, crucial and foundational.

critical piece

Highlights the role of indispensable portion for the assembly or function of something.

FAQs

How do I use "main component" in a sentence?

Use "main component" to identify the most important part of something. For example, "The "main component" of a computer is the CPU".

What's a good alternative to "main component"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "key element", "primary constituent", or "central feature".

Is it ever incorrect to use "main component"?

While grammatically correct, using "main component" may be misleading if the described part isn't truly the most important one. Consider "significant component" or "essential part" if the element is important, but not necessarily dominant.

What is the difference between "main component" and "key component"?

"Main component" refers to the most substantial or primary element, while "key component" signifies an element that is essential for function or success. The phrases are similar, but "main component" implies a greater degree of dominance than "key component".