factor
A factor is a contributing element or circumstance that influences a particular result or outcome. In mathematics and statistics, it refers to a quantity that when multiplied with another produces a given product, or a variable that accounts for part of the variance in data.
Examples
3 of 5The cost of living was the most important factor in their decision to move to the countryside.
The cost of living was the most important factor in their decision to move to the countryside.
Socioeconomic status remains a significant factor in determining educational attainment across the region.
Socioeconomic status remains a significant factor in determining educational attainment across the region.
We need to consider the 'boredom factor' before we agree to such a long road trip.
We need to consider the 'boredom factor' before we agree to such a long road trip.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'factory'. Just as a factory produces goods, a 'factor' helps produce a result.
Quick Quiz
Poor nutrition is a major ______ in the development of chronic diseases.
Correct!
The correct answer is: factor
Examples
The cost of living was the most important factor in their decision to move to the countryside.
everydayThe cost of living was the most important factor in their decision to move to the countryside.
Socioeconomic status remains a significant factor in determining educational attainment across the region.
formalSocioeconomic status remains a significant factor in determining educational attainment across the region.
We need to consider the 'boredom factor' before we agree to such a long road trip.
informalWe need to consider the 'boredom factor' before we agree to such a long road trip.
The researchers isolated several environmental factors that contribute to the degradation of the coral reef.
academicThe researchers isolated several environmental factors that contribute to the degradation of the coral reef.
The sudden rise in interest rates was a major factor in the company's decision to downsize.
businessThe sudden rise in interest rates was a major factor in the company's decision to downsize.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
risk factor
risk factor
feel-good factor
feel-good factor
the X factor
the X factor
Often Confused With
A 'fact' is a piece of information known to be true, while a 'factor' is one of the causes that brings about a result.
A 'facet' is a specific side or aspect of a multi-sided situation, whereas a 'factor' is a cause that influences the situation.
Usage Notes
Use 'factor' when discussing the specific causes that lead to an outcome, especially in analytical or scientific writing. It is frequently followed by the preposition 'in' (e.g., 'a factor in the success').
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'factor' as a synonym for 'reason' in a generic way; however, 'factor' implies it is one of several components contributing to a larger complex result.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'factory'. Just as a factory produces goods, a 'factor' helps produce a result.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'factor', meaning 'doer or maker', derived from the verb 'facere' (to do or make).
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
Poor nutrition is a major ______ in the development of chronic diseases.
Correct!
The correct answer is: factor
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
A parameter is a limit or boundary that defines the scope of...
indicatorA sign, signal, or piece of information that points to the s...
aspectA particular part or feature of something, such as a situati...
catalystA catalyst is something that makes a change happen faster or...
criterionA criterion is a principle or standard used to judge, evalua...
Related Words
anteruptism
C1Describing the specific state, conditions, or period occurring immediately before a sudden rupture, eruption, or systemic failure. It is used to characterize the buildup of tension and the identifiable indicators that precede a significant disruption.
synputity
C1Synputity refers to the state or quality of synthesized inputs being perfectly integrated and pure, resulting in a seamless and uncorrupted whole. It is often used in technical or philosophical contexts to describe the ideal blending of diverse data or elements into a single, cohesive entity.
extramercent
C1A noun referring to a secondary or non-standard commercial transaction, typically one that occurs outside of regulated primary markets. In a test-prep context, it describes an ancillary payment or exchange used to facilitate trade in niche or informal economic sectors.
ultrasignless
C1Describes something that is completely devoid of any identifying marks, symbols, or signals, often to an extreme or absolute degree. It refers to a state of total anonymity or lack of distinctive characteristics in a physical or semiotic sense.
inlocness
C1To precisely identify, fix, or anchor an object or concept within its specific geographic or systemic location. It describes the active process of mapping or assigning a permanent place to something within a predefined framework.
devestation
C1Devastation refers to widespread and severe destruction or damage to a place or object. It can also describe the state of extreme emotional shock, grief, or overwhelm felt by a person.
intranavize
C1The systemic process or framework of internal navigation within a complex, closed-circuit digital environment or architectural structure. It refers specifically to the methodology used to move between non-public nodes or data points in a secure system.
exgenent
C1Requiring immediate action or attention; pressing or demanding. It is often used to describe urgent circumstances or a person who is extremely demanding and exacting.
adpelent
C1A technical or pseudo-word often appearing in lexical proficiency tests, referring to an agent or substance designed to drive away or repel unwanted elements. It follows Latin morphological patterns but is not found in standard modern English dictionaries, serving primarily as a distractor in linguistic assessments.
propassward
C1A high-security, professional-grade authentication credential used primarily in digital proctoring and secure certification systems. It functions as an advanced passphrase that often integrates multi-factor verification to ensure the identity of a user during high-stakes testing or sensitive data access.
Comments (0)
Login to CommentStart learning languages for free
Start Learning Free