C2 noun Formal

factor

/ˈfæktər/

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 5
1

The 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.

2

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.

3

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.

Word Family

Noun
factor
Verb
factor
Adjective
factorial
Related
factorization
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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

1

The cost of living was the most important factor in their decision to move to the countryside.

everyday

The cost of living was the most important factor in their decision to move to the countryside.

2

Socioeconomic status remains a significant factor in determining educational attainment across the region.

formal

Socioeconomic status remains a significant factor in determining educational attainment across the region.

3

We need to consider the 'boredom factor' before we agree to such a long road trip.

informal

We need to consider the 'boredom factor' before we agree to such a long road trip.

4

The researchers isolated several environmental factors that contribute to the degradation of the coral reef.

academic

The researchers isolated several environmental factors that contribute to the degradation of the coral reef.

5

The sudden rise in interest rates was a major factor in the company's decision to downsize.

business

The sudden rise in interest rates was a major factor in the company's decision to downsize.

Word Family

Noun
factor
Verb
factor
Adjective
factorial
Related
factorization

Common Collocations

contributing factor contributing factor
decisive factor decisive factor
limiting factor limiting factor
key factor key factor
human factor human factor

Common Phrases

risk factor

risk factor

feel-good factor

feel-good factor

the X factor

the X factor

Often Confused With

factor vs fact

A 'fact' is a piece of information known to be true, while a 'factor' is one of the causes that brings about a result.

factor vs facet

A 'facet' is a specific side or aspect of a multi-sided situation, whereas a 'factor' is a cause that influences the situation.

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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

Countable noun Plural: factors Often used in the pattern: [Noun] is a factor in [Noun/Gerund]

Quick Quiz

Poor nutrition is a major ______ in the development of chronic diseases.

Correct!

The correct answer is: factor

Related Words

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Describing 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

C1

Synputity 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

C1

A 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

C1

Describes 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

C1

To 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

C1

Devastation 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

C1

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exgenent

C1

Requiring 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

C1

A 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

C1

A 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.

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