the key reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the key reason" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the most important factor or explanation for a particular situation or decision. Example: "The key reason for the project's success was the team's dedication and hard work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In my view, the key reason is disruptive change.

The Guardian

The key reason is that they are only provisional.

The Guardian - Opinion

Stress is the key reason so many GPs intend to quit.

The Guardian

Motivation remains the key reason why most UK adults remain offline – cited by 64% of people.

The Guardian

The key reason for saving in the home is reliable access.

The Guardian

Beyond notifications, music controls are the key reason to own a smartwatch.

The Guardian - Tech

But that is the key reason I can't get on board with this film.

The Guardian - Opinion

But this is not the key reason single fathers choose California.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The key reason people come, though, is to experience the Kingdom of Women.

The Guardian

We went antiquing -- the key reason to visit Strasburg, a town of 4,100.

The New York Times - Travel

The key reason for this critical status is glacial retreat caused by global warming.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To avoid redundancy, ensure that the context doesn't already imply importance. For example, avoid phrases like "the key reason is the most important factor".

Common error

Avoid using "the key reason" when multiple factors contribute significantly. Overusing it can weaken your argument. In such cases, consider alternatives like "one of the primary reasons" or "a significant factor".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the key reason" functions as a noun phrase identifying the most important cause or explanation for something. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used. It emphasizes a single, crucial factor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the key reason" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase to emphasize the most important cause or explanation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is versatile enough for various contexts, including news, science, and business. While it's crucial for highlighting a primary factor, avoid overuse in situations with multiple significant contributors. Alternatives like "the main reason" or "the primary reason" can provide nuance where necessary. Remember to use "the key reason" judiciously for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the main reason

Replaces 'key' with 'main', offering a slightly less emphatic but equally common alternative.

the primary reason

Substitutes 'key' with 'primary', highlighting the fundamental importance of the reason.

the principal reason

Replaces 'key' with 'principal', suggesting the most important or leading reason.

the chief reason

Uses 'chief' instead of 'key' to indicate the most significant reason.

the foremost reason

Emphasizes that the reason is at the front or head of all reasons.

the underlying reason

Highlights the fundamental and less obvious cause.

the central reason

Focuses on the reason being at the core or center of the matter.

the crucial factor

Shifts from 'reason' to 'factor,' emphasizing importance for a specific result.

the major factor

Similar to 'crucial factor' but slightly less emphatic.

the decisive factor

Indicates the factor that ultimately determines an outcome.

FAQs

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

"The key reason" is used to highlight the most important factor contributing to a specific outcome. For example, "The key reason for the project's success was the team's dedication."

What are some alternatives to "the key reason"?

You can use alternatives like "the main reason", "the primary reason", or "the principal reason" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "the key reason is the most important factor"?

Yes, using both "key reason" and "most important factor" is redundant. Choose one or the other to avoid unnecessary repetition. "The key reason" already implies importance.

When should I avoid using "the key reason"?

Avoid using "the key reason" when several factors contribute significantly to an outcome. In such cases, using alternatives like "one of the primary reasons" or "a significant factor" is more appropriate.