major factor — important cause
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
A main reason or influence that strongly affects a situation or result.
Say it like a native
Textbook Cost constituted a preponderant causal element.
Native Cost was a major factor.
'A major factor' is natural; 'preponderant causal element' is jargon.
Pattern: major factor in/behind/for + noun/gerund
In use
- Stress was a major factor in her decision to change jobs.daily life
- In my opinion, a major factor behind the rise in online shopping is the convenience it offers to customers.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ Money was a major factor of his decision.
✓ Money was a major factor in his decision.
'A factor IN something', not 'of'.
Common collocations
a major factor (in)— in, contributing, key, deciding
Don't confuse it
'Minor factor' means a less important reason.