main factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'main factor' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is the most significant element in a particular situation or issue. For example, "The main factor in determining the success of the project was the amount of funding available."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Hardly 'the main factor'.

Independent

"The main factor is this uncertainty.

The New York Times

But winnability is the main factor.

The New York Times - Sports

He pointed to the players as the main factor.

The New York Times - Sports

Marquee value was the main factor, she said, not controversy.

The New York Times

"The main factor is just being pain free.

The Guardian - Sport

But Albrecht proposes that the main factor is psychological.

The New York Times - Magazine

If price was the main factor, that's what leapt out.

Harvard Business Review

Processed food is the main factor in modern obesity.

Harvard University

But it's not the main factor causing the market turmoil.

The New York Times

But he insisted money would not be the main factor.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "main factor", ensure that the sentence clearly indicates what it is a factor of. For instance, specify "the main factor in the project's success" instead of just "the main factor".

Common error

Avoid using "main factor" when multiple factors contribute significantly. Instead, acknowledge other contributing elements to provide a balanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "main factor" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying the most significant element or reason in a given context. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a commonly used phrase, appearing in diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "main factor" is a versatile and frequently used noun phrase that serves to highlight the most significant element in a given situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. Its prevalence in "News & Media" and "Science" contexts indicates its suitability for both journalistic and academic writing. When using "main factor", ensure clarity by specifying what it is a factor of, and avoid overstating its importance when multiple elements contribute significantly. Alternatives like "primary reason" or "key element" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Overall, "main factor" is a valuable tool for emphasizing crucial aspects in clear and concise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary reason

Focuses on the cause-and-effect relationship, emphasizing the reason behind something.

key element

Highlights the importance of a component within a larger system or process.

central aspect

Emphasizes that something is a core part of a situation or topic.

major influence

Highlights the power that something has on affecting an outcome.

principal cause

Similar to primary reason, but often used in more formal or scientific contexts.

driving force

Highlights the element that propels action or change.

most important thing

Simplifies the concept by directly stating the highest priority.

critical component

Stresses that something is essential and vital for success or function.

core ingredient

Implies that something is a fundamental part of a mixture or process.

chief determinant

Suggests that something has ultimate control over the result.

FAQs

How can I use "main factor" in a sentence?

You can use "main factor" to highlight the most significant element in a situation. For example, "The weather was the "main factor" in the game's cancellation."

What are some alternatives to "main factor"?

Alternatives to "main factor" include "primary reason", "key element", or "central aspect", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "main factor" and "major influence"?

"Main factor" refers to the most significant contributing element, while "major influence" highlights something that has a strong effect. Although related, the "main factor" is more direct in its contribution.

Is it correct to say "the main factor was because"?

While understandable, it's more grammatically precise to say "the "main factor" was" followed by a noun or noun phrase, or to rephrase using "the "primary reason" was because".