key elements

Meaning

1. 1nounplural

   The most important parts or features that something depends on to work or be understood.

   Grammar: Used with plural verbs: the key elements are clear; the singular is key element.

   Patterns

   • the key elements of something
   • key elements in something

   The key elements of a good story are character, conflict and setting.

   Trust and communication are key elements in any strong team.

   The report lists the key elements of the new safety plan.

Word forms

Common combinations

identify the key elements

First, identify the key elements of the argument.

key elements of a plan

Budget and timing are key elements of a plan.

include key elements

The summary should include all key elements.

one of the key elements

Teamwork is one of the key elements of our success.

key elements for success

She listed three key elements for success.

Synonyms and how they differ

essentials

Essentials sounds more basic and everyday, while key elements often points to the parts of a larger structure.

main components

Main components fits systems or products made of parts, whereas key elements is wider and fits ideas too.

core features

Core features stresses the central properties of something, while key elements includes anything that matters most.

basics

Basics refers to the simplest foundations, whereas key elements may be advanced but still crucial.

Opposites

Word family

element noun

a part or aspect of something

elemental adjective

basic or fundamental

elementary adjective

relating to the simplest level

key adjective

extremely important

Commonly confused: key elements or elements (chemistry)?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “key elements”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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