was a key factor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was a key factor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something played an important role in a particular outcome or situation. Example: "The team's collaboration was a key factor in the project's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Bucks Coach George Karl said Collins was a key factor in the Nets' victory.

The New York Times - Sports

It is certain that Arkhipov's reputation was a key factor in the control room debate.

The Guardian - Opinion

Grizzle, a senior, was a key factor in Florida's victory last year.

The New York Times - Sports

The insecurity was a key factor in the exodus, according to residents.

The Guardian

When Bach was elected, it was widely speculated that Putin's support was a key factor.

The Guardian - Sport

"It was a key factor in the Industrial Revolution," Mr. Schaeffer said.

The New York Times

For Sara Baume, the recession was a key factor in finding her voice.

The Guardian - Books

But it is fair to say that the Latino vote was a key factor this year.

The New York Times

"But he was negligent, and his negligence was a key factor in causing Barbara Stanley's death".

The New Yorker

Determining the age of the new fossils was a key factor in establishing their evolutionary significance.

University of California, Berkeley

While postseason experience is sometimes overrated, it was a key factor for the Spurs.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was a key factor", ensure you clearly specify what it influenced or contributed to. This provides context and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "was a key factor" without providing specific details. For example, instead of saying "Experience was a key factor", specify what was achieved because of the experience: "Extensive experience was a key factor in securing the project funding."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was a key factor" functions as a predicate nominative, identifying a subject complement that renames or describes the subject. This expression commonly attributes significant influence or importance to a particular element or aspect within a given context, as demonstrated by the numerous examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

21%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "was a key factor" is a versatile phrase used to highlight the significant influence of something on a particular outcome. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and very common, appearing frequently in news, science, and academic contexts. To ensure clarity, specify the influence and avoid vagueness. While alternatives like "played a crucial role" and "was instrumental" exist, "was a key factor" remains a straightforward and widely accepted choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

played a crucial role

This alternative emphasizes the importance of the role played.

was instrumental

This suggests something was essential in achieving a result.

was a significant element

This highlights the importance of the element.

contributed significantly

This emphasizes the contribution made to an outcome.

was a major influence

This highlights the impact something had on something else.

was central to

This indicates something was at the heart of the matter.

had a decisive impact

This emphasizes the conclusive effect something had.

was a critical component

This highlights the essential nature of the component.

was paramount

This suggests something was of the highest importance.

was a determining influence

This emphasizes the power something had to shape an outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "was a key factor" in a sentence?

Use "was a key factor" to emphasize that something played a significant role in a specific outcome. For instance, "Collaboration "was a key factor" in the project's success".

What are some alternatives to saying "was a key factor"?

You can use alternatives like "played a crucial role", "was instrumental", or "was a significant element" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "was a key factor" or "was the key factor"?

The choice depends on the context. "Was a key factor" suggests one of several important elements, while "was the key factor" implies it was the most important element.

What is the difference between "was a key factor" and "was a major factor"?

While both indicate importance, "was a key factor" is slightly more general, whereas "was a major factor" suggests a more substantial or significant influence.