a big relief

USAGE SUMMARY

'a big relief' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the feeling of relief that you or someone else has experienced. For example: "The news that the pandemic was finally over was a big relief to us all."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"A big relief," Dubinsky said.

The New York Times - Sports

Arriving at Create was a big relief.

The New York Times

That was a big relief.

The Guardian - Sport

I feel a big relief".

The New York Times

That didn't, which was a big relief".

Independent

Clearly this was a big relief.

The New York Times - Health

Today feels like a big relief.

The Guardian

That would be a big relief for Susiya.

Independent

"The judge's order is a big relief to me.

The New York Times

"It's a big relief to be honest," said Stoner.

Independent

It's been a big relief to see it go".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a big relief" to express a tangible lessening of worry, stress, or burden after a challenging period or event. This phrase is versatile and can be applied to personal situations, professional contexts, or broader societal issues.

Common error

While "a big relief" is common, avoid using it repeatedly in close succession. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a weight lifted" or "a great comfort" to maintain reader engagement and add depth to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big relief" functions primarily as a subjective assessment of a positive change, expressing a significant reduction in stress, worry, or burden. Ludwig shows many examples where individuals describe personal situations that caused them stress and how they overcame them.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"A big relief" is a common and versatile phrase used to express a significant reduction in stress, worry, or burden. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, alternative phrases like "a substantial alleviation" may be more appropriate for highly formal settings. To avoid overuse, writers should consider employing synonyms such as "a weight lifted" or "a great comfort" to maintain variety and reader engagement. Understanding the nuances of this phrase and its alternatives can enhance clarity and impact in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a weight lifted

Similar to 'a load off my shoulders', but can also apply to a situation rather than just personal feelings.

a load off my shoulders

This idiom vividly expresses the removal of responsibility or worry, focusing on the personal burden.

a break from tension

Directly addresses the reduction in stress or anxiety.

a great comfort

This alternative suggests emotional solace or support rather than the lessening of a burden.

a welcome change

Focuses on the relief brought about by a shift from an undesirable situation.

a sense of liberation

Emphasizes the feeling of freedom and release after being constrained or worried.

a calming influence

Describes something that reduces anxiety and promotes tranquility.

a fortunate turn

This suggests a positive change in circumstances, leading to relief.

a stroke of luck

Highlights the element of chance or good fortune in resolving a difficult situation.

good news

A simple expression of something positive that alleviates worry.

FAQs

How can I use "a big relief" in a sentence?

You can use "a big relief" to express a feeling of comfort or alleviation after a period of stress or difficulty. For example, "It was "a big relief" when the doctor confirmed the diagnosis was not serious."

What are some alternatives to saying "a big relief"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a weight off my shoulders", "a great comfort", or "a sense of liberation" as alternatives to "a big relief".

Is it appropriate to use "a big relief" in formal writing?

Yes, "a big relief" is generally acceptable in formal writing, although you might consider more sophisticated synonyms like "a substantial alleviation" or "a considerable respite" in very formal or academic contexts.

Can "a big relief" be used to describe a situation or only personal feelings?

"A big relief" can be used to describe both personal feelings and situations. For example, "The end of the project was "a big relief" to the whole team," describes a situational feeling.