X factor

noun

: a circumstance, quality, or person that has a strong but unpredictable influence

Examples of X factor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tindall, meanwhile, brought on Anthony Gordon and Joe Willock, who are genuine gamechangers, but the rest of the Newcastle bench lacked X factor. Chris Waugh, New York Times, 21 Apr. 2025 Sergei Bobrovsky was a major X factor for the Panthers in each of their runs to the Stanley Cup Final the past two years. Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2025 Williams, 23, has always had an X factor effect — not just because of his potential, but also due to his unpredictability. Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2025 The question of tariffs is just one of the X factors facing Target, which saw dramatic growth during the pandemic but has seen the increases stall over the last couple years. Evan Clark, WWD, 4 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for X factor

Word History

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of X factor was in 1930

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Cite this Entry

“X factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/X%20factor. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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