substantial factor
[səbˈstænʃəl ˈfæktər]
nounpl: substantial factors
fator substancial; fator material; elemento essencial
1. In law, an element or circumstance that plays a significant or material role in causing a particular outcome or result, particularly in tort law regarding causation
The court determined that the defendant's negligence was a substantial factor in causing the plaintiff's injuries.
O tribunal determinou que a negligência do réu foi um fator substancial na causação das lesões do autor.
2. A significant component or element that meaningfully contributes to a particular situation, decision, or outcome
Education was a substantial factor in her career advancement.
A educação foi um fator substancial no seu avanço na carreira.
3. In causation analysis, a factor that is more than trivial or minor in establishing liability or responsibility
The inadequate safety equipment was a substantial factor in the workplace accident.
O equipamento de segurança inadequado foi um fator substancial no acidente de trabalho.
This term is primarily used in legal and formal contexts in both English-speaking and Portuguese-speaking countries. It is particularly important in tort law and causation analysis in civil litigation. In Brazil, it is commonly encountered in law school curricula and court proceedings, while in the USA it is fundamental to negligence law. The concept helps courts determine whether a defendant's actions were significant enough to warrant liability.
Related Idioms & Phrases
a substantial factor in determining...
play a substantial factor in...
prove a substantial factor
establish as a substantial factor
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