play a major role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'play a major role' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a person or organization that has a significant contribution to something. For example, "The government plays a major role in controlling the spread of Covid-19".

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Brains play a major role, of course.

The New York Times

Will probably play a major role.

Independent

Sex didn't play a major role.

The Guardian

Pharmaceuticals play a major role in Singapore's economic overhaul.

The New York Times

Technology and education could play a major role.

The Guardian

Property taxes play a major role in those high costs.

The New York Times

Under the new rules, God will play a major role.

The New Yorker

Fish hooks play a major role in the plot.

The New York Times

Forests play a major role as carbon sinks.

The Guardian

In both projects, lighting will play a major role.

The New York Times

Tax reform would play a major role here.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "play a major role", ensure that the subject clearly demonstrates significant influence or impact within the context you're describing. Provide specific examples or details to support the claim.

Common error

Avoid using "play a major role" when the subject's contribution is actually minor or secondary. Overstating importance can weaken your argument and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "play a major role" functions as a predicate in sentences, indicating the significant part something or someone takes in a particular situation or process. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "play a major role" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something or someone has significant influence or importance. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is correct and widely used across various contexts. Its frequency is high in both scientific and news media, suggesting its versatility. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject genuinely demonstrates a substantial contribution. Alternatives like "be a key factor" or "contribute significantly" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Avoid overstating the importance to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Be a key factor

Focuses on being an essential element, shifting from 'role' to 'factor'.

Contribute significantly

Emphasizes the contribution aspect, rather than the role itself.

Have a substantial impact

Highlights the impact or effect, differing from the function.

Figure prominently

Suggests a noticeable presence or importance, changing the imagery.

Hold considerable importance

Focuses on the degree of importance rather than the action of playing a role.

Carry great weight

Implies influence and importance, using a different metaphor.

Exert a strong influence

Highlights the exertion of influence instead of the role.

Make a critical difference

Shifts the focus to the difference made, not the role played.

Serve a central function

Replaces 'role' with 'function', emphasizing the purpose.

Bear responsibility

Highlights accountability, focusing on duty rather than influence.

FAQs

How can I use "play a major role" in a sentence?

Use "play a major role" to emphasize that something or someone has a significant impact or influence. For example, "Technology "plays a major role" in modern education".

What are some alternatives to "play a major role"?

Alternatives include phrases like "be a key factor", "contribute significantly", or "have a substantial impact", each emphasizing slightly different aspects of influence or importance.

Is it acceptable to use "play a major role" in formal writing?

Yes, "play a major role" is acceptable in formal writing as it is a grammatically correct and widely understood phrase. However, consider using more precise language if the context requires it.

What's the difference between "play a major role" and "play a minor role"?

"Play a major role" indicates significant influence or importance, while "play a minor role" suggests a smaller or less significant contribution. The choice depends on the actual level of influence being described.