Grammar fix
play a role
be important
To have an important effect or influence on something.
collocationB1common
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
Parents play a big role in shaping their children's values.
In my opinion, technology plays an important role in modern education because it makes learning more accessible.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: Diet plays an important role for your health.
Say: Diet plays an important role in your health.
'Play a role IN' something, not 'for'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Play a role in' is the natural collocation; 'constitutes a significant factor' is essay-stiff.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
play a role in
- a key role
- an important role
- in the decision
- a part in