the key components

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the key components' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the most important or essential elements of a larger concept. For example, "The key components of a successful business plan include a detailed budget, a thorough marketing strategy, and clear objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The network is one of the key components of YankeeNets.

The New York Times - Sports

For the most part, the key components came from Japan.

The New York Times - Magazine

So Vaughan turned to one of the key components of Plan B Andrew Flintoffff.

The Guardian - Sport

More critically, one of the key components of the story was kept off screen throughout.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"If someone knows the key components," he said, "it will allow them to bring it down".

The New York Times

Then work backwards, identifying some of the key components to achieving it.

The Guardian

They are but a few of the key components of the Pistons, the top-seeded team in the East.

The New York Times - Sports

He lists the key components of Salon's business, and, conspicuously, Print Content is merely one of five.

The New York Times - Magazine

Ways for governments to ramp up their commitments in future are one of the key components of the Paris talks.

The Guardian

But scientists know little about how the key components of marijuana tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD affect different users.

The New Yorker

According to one Eastern Conference official, the key components -- Van Horn, Sprewell, Brandon and Robinson -- and teams are set.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex system or process, use "the key components" to clearly identify the most important elements for understanding or functionality.

Common error

Avoid using "the key components" as a substitute for more specific and descriptive language. While it's a useful general term, clearly articulating what those components are provides more value to the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the key components" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in identifying crucial elements. Example: "The key components of success are hard work and dedication."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the key components" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that identifies the most important elements of a system, process, or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its wide applicability across diverse fields, including science, news, and business. While versatile, ensure you use it with specific descriptions to avoid vague jargon. Its frequency and presence in authoritative sources like the New York Times and The Guardian highlight its relevance in both formal and informal contexts. Consider alternatives like "essential elements" or "critical factors" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the key ingredients

Replaces "components" with "ingredients", implying a recipe or mixture, maintaining the core meaning of essential parts.

the essential elements

Substitutes "key" with "essential" and "components" with "elements", focusing on the most necessary aspects.

the core elements

Uses "core" instead of "key", emphasizing the central or fundamental nature of the elements.

the critical factors

Shifts the focus to "factors" implying contributing influences or reasons that are crucial.

the fundamental aspects

Replaces "components" with "aspects", highlighting specific features or perspectives that are basic.

the crucial parts

Emphasizes the vital nature of the "parts", stressing their importance.

the main features

Focuses on "features" which are distinctive attributes or characteristics.

the basic building blocks

Emphasizes the foundational aspect, referring to elements that constitute a larger structure.

the primary constituents

Highlights the composition and makeup of something, with constituents being the ingredients or elements.

the integral pieces

Stresses the necessity of each "piece" to the whole, highlighting their interconnectedness.

FAQs

How can I use "the key components" in a sentence?

Use "the key components" to identify the most important parts of something. For example, "The key components of a healthy diet are fruits, vegetables, and whole grains."

What are some alternatives to "the key components"?

You can use alternatives such as "the essential elements", "the core elements", or "the critical factors" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "key components" or "essential components"?

Both "key components" and "essential components" are correct and largely interchangeable. "Essential" emphasizes necessity, while "key" highlights importance, but the difference is often negligible.

What is the difference between "the key components" and "the main features"?

"The key components" refers to the essential parts that make up a whole, while "the main features" highlights the most noticeable or significant characteristics. Components are necessary for function, while features are descriptive.