risk factor — something that increases danger
collocationB2IELTS 5.5+neutraloccasional
A risk factor is something that makes it more likely for a problem, illness, or danger to happen.
Say it like a native
Textbook Smoking constitutes an element that elevates the probability of disease.
Native Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease.
'An element that elevates the probability' is jargon; 'risk factor' is the set term.
Pattern: risk factor (for something)
In use
- Lack of exercise is a major risk factor for heart disease.health
- In my opinion, stress is a significant risk factor for many health problems, so people should try to manage it better.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ Smoking is a risk factor of heart disease.
✓ Smoking is a risk factor for heart disease.
A risk factor FOR a disease, not 'of'.
Common collocations
a risk factor for— a risk factor for, a major risk factor, key risk factors, reduce the risk
Don't confuse it
Compare with 'cause', which means something directly creates a problem, while a risk factor only increases the chance.