the chief factor contributing to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the chief factor contributing to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the primary reason or element that plays a significant role in a particular outcome or situation. Example: "The chief factor contributing to the project's success was the team's dedication and hard work."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The chief factor contributing to the demise of this behavior system was the desire to break free and set out on journeys of self-determination.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Impaired DNA damage repair and accrued genomic instability are some of the chief factors contributing to premature cellular senescence and accelerated aging (Liu et al., 2005).

Protein & Cell

This has been hypothesized to be one of the chief factors contributing to migraine chronification [6, 7] and, when overuse of medicine reaches a level to warrant a diagnosis of Medication Overuse (MO), it further complicates CM making it particularly difficult to manage.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

7 Unfortunately, both the prevalence of ideal cardiovascular health status and the improvement of CHS are far from satisfactory. 2 8 Atherosclerosis is a chief factor contributing to the occurrence and development of CVD.

BMJ Open

The Internet is another factor contributing to divorces, said Ms. Karabatos, the lawyer.

The New York Times

One factor contributing to the problem is the loss of several hundred thousand dollars in sponsorship from HSBC bank, said the center's president and chief executive, Marcia White.

The New York Times

Another factor contributing to the falling CPM rates is the change ownership of targeting data.

The Guardian

The celebratory factor contributes to it.

The Guardian - Sport

He described the assassination as one of the factors contributing to his disillusionment with politics.

The New York Times

Rand looks at the many factors contributing to our inaction.

The Guardian - Books

The wider factors contributing to the tragedy are, one suspects, manifold.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider whether "chief" is the most appropriate descriptor. If multiple factors are significant, but one is slightly more important, "chief" is suitable. If there are equally important factors, a different phrasing may be more accurate.

Common error

Avoid using "the chief factor contributing to" when the factor is only partially responsible or when other factors are equally important. Overstating the significance can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the chief factor contributing to" functions as a connector that introduces the primary cause or influence leading to a particular result or situation. It sets up a causal relationship, emphasizing the most significant element among potentially numerous factors. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the chief factor contributing to" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that identifies the primary cause or influence leading to a particular outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for expressing ideas accurately and clearly. While versatile, it is most commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. To enhance writing, ensure clarity by explicitly identifying the outcome and avoid overstating the significance of the factor. Alternatives such as "the main reason for" or "the primary cause of" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the primary cause of

Focuses more directly on causation rather than contribution.

the main reason for

Simplifies the phrasing to a more direct expression of reason.

the principal element leading to

Emphasizes the role of a leading element in a process.

the key determinant of

Highlights the determining aspect of the factor.

the most significant influence on

Shifts focus to the influence exerted by the factor.

the major driver behind

Implies a driving force that propels an outcome.

the predominant factor in

Emphasizes the predominance or prevalence of the factor.

the central aspect affecting

Focuses on how the factor affects something as a central aspect.

the foremost contributor to

Highlights the leading role of the factor as a contributor.

the critical component for

Points out the factor as a critical or essential component.

FAQs

What does "the chief factor contributing to" mean?

This phrase identifies the primary or most important element that causes or leads to a specific result or situation. It highlights the key influence among potentially many contributing factors.

How can I use "the chief factor contributing to" in a sentence?

Use it to introduce the most significant reason or cause behind an event or outcome. For example, "The chief factor contributing to the company's success was its innovative marketing strategy."

What are some alternatives to "the chief factor contributing to"?

You can use alternatives like "the main reason for", "the primary cause of", or "the principal element leading to" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. See other alternatives "here", "here" or "here".

Is it appropriate to use "the chief factor contributing to" in formal writing?

Yes, it is suitable for formal writing. This phrase is grammatically correct and can be used in various contexts, including academic, business, and news reporting, as Ludwig examples show.