plays a role in

USAGE SUMMARY

"plays a role in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the contribution of something in a particular process. For example: "Research plays a role in the development of new treatments for cancer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Everybody plays a role in this country.

The New York Times

Empathy also plays a role in cooperation.

University of California, Berkeley

Genetics plays a role in susceptibility.

The New York Times - Science

It also plays a role in life sciences.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Unawareness often plays a role in seemingly irrational behaviors.

Stanford University

Morality plays a role in perception, Lucas said.

Cornell University

Your diet also plays a role in building muscle mass.

Harvard University

Neurogenic inflammation plays a role in many of these mechanisms.

Nature

This conscious obliviousness also plays a role in such behavior.

The New Yorker

Ethnic discrimination plays a role in the outrage.

The New York Times

(1) plays plays a role in RNA stability.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "plays a role in", ensure that the connection between the subject and the outcome is clear to enhance understanding for the reader. Avoid vague statements without specific context.

Common error

Avoid using "plays a role in" as a generic placeholder. Replace it with more descriptive verbs like "drives", "influences", or "shapes" to convey a more precise meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plays a role in" functions as a verb phrase indicating that something has an influence or contribution to a particular process, situation, or outcome. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples across diverse fields.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

34%

Academia

26%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "plays a role in" is a versatile expression used to denote the contribution or influence of something on a particular outcome. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely accepted, as supported by numerous examples from reputable sources across diverse fields such as news, science, and academia. While "plays a role in" is a useful and common phrase, it's important to provide sufficient context and specificity to ensure clarity. Consider using stronger verbs or more descriptive alternatives when possible, such as "contributes to" or "is instrumental in", to convey a more precise meaning. By understanding its function, purpose, and usage patterns, writers can effectively incorporate "plays a role in" into their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contributes to

This alternative emphasizes a direct contribution to a result or process.

is instrumental in

This suggests a key or crucial part in achieving something.

is a factor in

This indicates that something is one of several things influencing an outcome.

has an impact on

This highlights the effect or influence something has.

is involved in

This suggests participation or connection to something.

figures in

This indicates a presence or consideration within a particular situation.

is significant in

This highlights importance or relevance.

participates in

This suggests active involvement in a process or event.

has a hand in

This indicates involvement, often in a subtle or indirect way.

makes a difference to

This emphasizes a noticeable effect on something.

FAQs

How can I use "plays a role in" in a sentence?

Use "plays a role in" to indicate that something has an influence or effect on a particular situation or outcome. For example, "Education "plays a role in" reducing reoffending".

What are some alternatives to "plays a role in"?

You can use alternatives such as "contributes to", "is instrumental in", or "is a factor in" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "plays a role in" or "has a role in"?

"Plays a role in" and "has a role in" are often interchangeable, but ""plays a role in"" suggests a more active involvement, while "has a role in" simply indicates that something is part of the situation.

What's the difference between "plays a role in" and "plays a part in"?

The phrases ""plays a role in"" and "plays a part in" are largely synonymous. "Part" may imply a smaller or less critical contribution than "role", though this is often a subtle distinction.