factor
Pronunciation: /ˈfæktər/
noun
Definition of factor
A circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result
Synonyms for factor
factor in a Sentence
- Diet is a major factor in preventing chronic diseases.
Why factor Matters for GRE & SAT
"factor" is a noun that means "A circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result" closely related to words like "element", "component", "aspect". As a word starting with F, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.
On the GRE, understanding "factor" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "factor" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.
Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (noun). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "factor" into long-term memory.
How to Remember factor
One effective way to remember "factor" (noun) is to group it with similar words you already know: "element" and "component" and "aspect". When you encounter "factor" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "A circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a res...".
Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "factor" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.
More Vocabulary Words Starting with F
- fabricate — invent in order to deceive
- facetious — treating serious issues with inappropriate humor
- facilitate — To make an action or process easier
- facilitate — To make an action or process easier
- factious — causing division or disagreement
- factor — A circumstance or element that contributes to a result
- fallacious — false or mistaken
- fallacy — A mistaken belief based on unsound reasoning
- fallible — capable of making an error
- fallow — (of farmland) not cultivated; barren