unifying element

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'unifying element' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that brings together and ties together different components or parts of something. For example, you can use it in a sentence such as, "The shared values of the family were the unifying element that held them together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As a unifying element five of the ballets use a common scenic design by the architect Santiago Calatrava.

The New York Times - Arts

Its subject is less food as something to cook than food as the binding and unifying element of dinner parties, friendship, and marriage.

The New Yorker

Ms. Merkel has repeatedly pointed to their common experience of having grown up under Communist rule as a defining and unifying element of their friendship.

The New York Times

In this second picture, the three, with Mr. Clinton replacing his daughter as the central unifying element, are striding purposefully forward, hand in hand, bearing a confidence and a New York polish.

The New York Times - Style

His theoretical and practical reliance on mathematics (which he considered to be the basic, unifying element of all science) was an important step in the early development of modern scientific method.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another, more general, unifying element of this kind is Holton's notion of themata.

SEP

In their excellent book "Full Steam Ahead," Ken Blanchard and Jesse Lyn Stoner identify the core unifying element of organizations, whether those be individual people, teams, or companies: vision.

Forbes

The principle of "one person, one vote" rings out upon the U.S.-American landscape as an essential and central unifying element of our great democracy, but one which, unfortunately, merely resounds as an ideal rather than as the reality.

Huffington Post

Indeed, one has a strong sense that the deepest unifying element on both sides involved attitudes toward religion.

The New Yorker

The main unifying element is the combat system, the Linear Motion Battle System LMBSS for short).

Wikipedia

You might mix patterns, but there was always a unifying element.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unifying element", ensure that the connection it provides is clear and directly relevant to the context. Explicitly state how the element brings different parts together for maximum clarity.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the role of the "unifying element". Ensure it genuinely integrates disparate aspects rather than merely existing alongside them.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unifying element" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific aspect, idea, or characteristic that creates cohesion within a larger context. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correctly and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unifying element" is a noun phrase used to describe an aspect that creates cohesion between different components. Ludwig AI verifies its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. Predominantly found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral register, suitable for formal communication. To enhance clarity, explicitly state how the "unifying element" integrates the components. Alternatives include "cohesive factor", "central theme", and "binding force".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cohesive factor

Focuses on the aspect of creating a united whole where things are linked.

binding force

Emphasizes strength and the power to keep things together, often suggesting a more compelling or irresistible connection.

central theme

Highlights the main idea or subject that connects different aspects of a work or discussion, especially where narrative or conceptual unity is important.

common denominator

Suggests something shared by all members of a group, often used in mathematical or statistical contexts but applicable more broadly.

connecting link

Focuses on the idea of bridging or linking disparate elements, highlighting the relationship between them.

integral component

Highlights that the item is a necessary part of the whole that holds it together.

underlying principle

Focuses on the fundamental rule or concept that supports and unifies a system or idea.

common thread

Suggests a recurring theme or characteristic that links different parts together in a subtle or less obvious way.

lynchpin

Suggests something that is critical and essential for maintaining stability and preventing collapse.

core element

Highlights the central or most important aspect that gives something its fundamental identity or structure.

FAQs

How can I use "unifying element" in a sentence?

You can use "unifying element" to describe a concept, theme, or feature that brings together different aspects of something. For example: "Shared values can be a powerful "unifying element" within a community."

What's a good alternative to "unifying element"?

Alternatives to "unifying element" include "cohesive factor", "binding force", or "central theme" depending on the specific context and the type of connection you want to emphasize.

What makes something a "unifying element"?

A "unifying element" effectively connects various, potentially disparate, parts into a cohesive whole. It's the common thread that ties everything together, ensuring harmony and coherence.

Is there a difference between "unifying element" and "unifying principle"?

"Unifying element" refers to a specific component or aspect that creates cohesion. A "unifying principle", on the other hand, refers to an overarching rule or belief that guides and connects different elements. For instance, in architecture, a specific design motif might be the unifying element, while sustainability could be the unifying principle.