Grammar fix
risk factor
something that increases danger
A risk factor is something that makes it more likely for a problem, illness, or danger to happen.
collocationB2occasional
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
Lack of exercise is a major risk factor for heart disease.
In my opinion, stress is a significant risk factor for many health problems, so people should try to manage it better.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: Smoking is a risk factor of heart disease.
Say: Smoking is a risk factor for heart disease.
A risk factor FOR a disease, not 'of'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'An element that elevates the probability' is jargon; 'risk factor' is the set term.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
a risk factor for
- a risk factor for
- a major risk factor
- key risk factors
- reduce the risk