the underlying factor is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the underlying factor is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the main reason or cause behind a situation or phenomenon. Example: "In analyzing the recent decline in sales, the underlying factor is a shift in consumer preferences towards online shopping."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The underlying factor is invariably low income.

The Guardian

The relationship of each variable to the underlying factor is expressed by factor loading.

International Journal of STEM Education

However, our results permit some valuable inferences to be drawn, as the distribution of CCD-infected colonies was not random in infected apiaries and thus the underlying factor is likely contagious or caused by exposure to a common risk factor(s).

Plosone

Also known as weak invariance [ 27], the issue here concerns the degree to which a one-unit change in the underlying factor is associated with a comparable change in measurement units for the same given item in each group.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

A: I think the underlying factor is that the status quo is not sustainable and it's not acceptable.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Because we used CFA to model metabolic syndrome in African American adolescents, the CVD risk factor measures as well as the underlying factor are treated as continuous variables (23).

Diabetes Care

"One of the underlying factors is that just like any organization, we have an attendance policy — if you didn't show up for work for four days, people will probably ask where you were". Workers advocacy group Making Change at Wal-Mart called the filing the "largest-ever complaint against Wal-Mart" in a statement Wednesday.

Los Angeles Times

Here, oestrogen and progesterone receptor status were combined to make the 'hormonal receptor' factor, which is positive when at least one of the underlying factors is positive.

Breast Cancer Research

"The underlying factors are similar everywhere.

The Guardian

While the act of killing so many so quickly is crude, the underlying factors are complex.

The Guardian - Opinion

With the use of factor analysis, the underlying factors are identified as: (1) enablers and means; (2) the use of services; and (3) the ICT sector's development.

Telecommunications Policy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the underlying factor is", ensure that it clearly connects to the issue or phenomenon you're explaining to provide a comprehensive understanding.

Common error

Avoid presenting "the underlying factor is" as the only cause when multiple factors contribute to a situation. Acknowledge complexity where relevant for a more accurate representation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the underlying factor is" serves as a connector to introduce the primary reason or cause behind a situation. Ludwig examples show its use in explaining complex issues, resource scarcity, or contagious diseases.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the underlying factor is" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase in English that introduces the primary cause or reason behind a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to provide clarity and explanation in various contexts, ranging from science and news to business. While it is not extremely common, it maintains a neutral to formal register and is suitable for professional communication. When using this phrase, ensure it clearly connects to the issue and avoid overstating its significance. Consider alternatives like "the primary cause is" or "the root cause is" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the primary cause is

Focuses on causality, indicating the main reason behind something.

the root cause is

Emphasizes the fundamental origin of a problem or situation.

the main driver is

Highlights the element that propels or initiates an event or trend.

the key reason is

Pinpoints the most important reason among several possibilities.

the essential element is

Stresses the crucial component that is necessary for something to exist or succeed.

the central aspect is

Highlights the most important part or feature of a subject.

the crucial element is

Emphasizes that something is extremely important and essential.

the fundamental issue is

Indicates a problem that is basic and important.

the predominant factor is

Identifies the most noticeable or important element.

the significant determinant is

Emphasizes the element that strongly influences or decides an outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "the underlying factor is" in a sentence?

You can use "the underlying factor is" to introduce the primary cause or reason behind a particular situation or phenomenon. For example, "In the decline of the ecosystem, the underlying factor is pollution."

What phrases are similar to "the underlying factor is"?

Alternatives include "the primary cause is", "the root cause is", or "the main reason is". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "the underlying factor is" in formal writing?

Yes, "the underlying factor is" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in academic or professional contexts where analyzing causes and effects is crucial.

What's the difference between "the underlying factor is" and "a contributing factor is"?

"The underlying factor is" suggests the main or most important cause, while "a contributing factor is" implies one of several causes. The first is more singular and determinant.