primary causes

USAGE SUMMARY

"primary causes" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe the main sources of a particular issue. For example: "Experts believe that the primary causes of global warming are the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The report ruled out genetics and vaccines as primary causes of the increase.

The New York Times

Theologians call these "primary causes," those that flow from the unmoved mover.

The New York Times - Science

Sleep will wait until morning, and thoughts about primary causes for another time.

The New York Times - Science

First-rate agitprop has a way of drifting far from its primary causes.

The New Yorker

In Yemen, the US is one of the primary causes of the problem.

The Guardian - Opinion

-Based on your readings, what do you think are the primary causes of the violence in France?

The New York Times

Hiding liabilities off the balance sheet and gambling for resurrection are among the primary causes of the current financial crisis.

The New York Times

Habitat loss and degradation appear to be the primary causes of decline.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Understanding the primary causes of communication problems in EDs.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

One of the primary causes is the asking of what are called "leading questions".

TechCrunch

The corrosion of wire is one of the primary causes for premature failure.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing complex issues, clearly identify and list the "primary causes" to provide a structured understanding for your audience.

Common error

Avoid assuming that correlated factors are "primary causes". Ensure a clear causal link supported by evidence before labeling something as a primary cause.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary causes" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies the main factors responsible for a particular phenomenon. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "primary causes" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to the main factors contributing to a particular situation. Ludwig AI indicates its broad usability across various contexts. Analysis of Ludwig's examples reveals its frequent use in scientific, news, and business settings. When using this phrase, ensure that the identified causes are well-supported by evidence and that correlation is not mistaken for causation. Related phrases, such as "main reasons" or "chief factors", can provide alternative ways to express the same idea, offering flexibility in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main reasons

Focuses on the reasoning or justification behind an event or situation.

chief factors

Emphasizes the most important elements contributing to a result.

principal drivers

Highlights the forces that propel or initiate a particular outcome.

root sources

Indicates the fundamental origins from which something arises.

major determinants

Stresses the elements that decisively affect or control an outcome.

key contributors

Focuses on significant agents or elements that add to a specific result.

leading factors

Highlights the factors that are most important or influential.

central elements

Emphasizes the core or essential parts of a situation.

underlying origins

Focuses on the basic or fundamental sources that give rise to something.

core reasons

Highlights the essential reasons behind a particular outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "primary causes" in a sentence?

You can use "primary causes" to identify the main factors contributing to a specific outcome. For example, "The study identified several "primary causes" of the economic recession."

What are some alternatives to "primary causes"?

Alternatives to "primary causes" include "main reasons", "chief factors", or "principal drivers", depending on the context.

What's the difference between "primary causes" and "secondary causes"?

"Primary causes" are the most direct and significant factors, while "secondary causes" are less direct and often result from the primary ones.

Is it correct to use "primary cause" instead of "primary causes"?

Using "primary cause" is appropriate when referring to a single, most important factor. However, "primary causes" is used when discussing multiple key factors.