leading element
[/ˈliːdɪŋ ˈɛləmənt/]
nounpl: leading elements
elemento principal
1. The most important or prominent component in a structure, system, or composition that guides or directs the others
The leading element in this architectural design is the central tower that anchors the entire structure.
O elemento principal neste projeto arquitetônico é a torre central que ancora toda a estrutura.
2. In chemistry, a chemical element that initiates or controls a reaction
Uranium is the leading element in nuclear fission reactions.
O urânio é o elemento principal nas reações de fissão nuclear.
3. In grammar and syntax, the word or phrase that comes first and establishes the focus of a clause
In the sentence structure, the subject serves as the leading element.
Na estrutura da sentença, o sujeito funciona como o elemento principal.
4. In music or performance, the dominant instrument or voice that carries the melody
The violin is the leading element in this orchestral arrangement.
O violino é o elemento principal neste arranjo orquestral.
This technical term is widely used in Brazilian Portuguese across academic, scientific, and professional contexts. In Portugal, 'elemento condutor' is preferred as it emphasizes the directive nature of the leading component. The phrase is domain-specific and appears frequently in engineering, architecture, chemistry, and linguistics discussions.
Related Idioms & Phrases
the leading element of success
establish the leading element
identify the leading element
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