All 4 Uses

factor
in
Gifted Hands
(Auto-generated)

Another factor entered into the picture, too.†
p. 89.1

factor = thing that affects a result or outcome
Because of a number of significant factors involved, it was a miracle for Craig to get admitted.†
p. 177.6 *

factors = things that affect a result or outcome
Her scheme, worked out as we went along, turned out to be the second positive factor.†
p. 30.8
Although he didn't say it, I'm convinced that my interest in classical music was a decisive factor.†
p. 108.1

Definitions:

(1) (factor as in: It was the deciding factor.)
something that affects a result or outcome

You also may encounter x-factor or x factor--meaning "the most important thing that influences a result or outcome."
(2) (factor as in: factor it into your thinking)
include consideration of
(3) (meaning too rare to warrant focus)
There are many specialized meanings in fields such as mathematics, business, finance, biology, and grammar.