* Noun: When "factor" refers to a circumstance, element, or influence that contributes to a result.
* Example: "Cost was a major factor in their decision."
* Verb: When "factor" means to consider something as an element in a calculation or process.
* Example: "We factored in the potential delays."
* Adjective: While less common, "factor" can sometimes be used as an adjective meaning "relating to factors."
* Example: "The factor analysis revealed interesting patterns."
Therefore, you need to consider the sentence context to determine the correct part of speech for "factor."