a breakthrough that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a breakthrough that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a significant discovery or advancement in a particular field or context. Example: "The researchers announced a breakthrough that could change the way we treat chronic diseases."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It was a breakthrough that rocked the technology world.

The Guardian - Tech

Could we find a breakthrough that would cut 90% of the electricity required for space cooling?

The Guardian

Nobel laureates praised his work as a breakthrough that might revolutionize modern medicine.

The New York Times

Newspapers here called it a "breakthrough" that could help end foreign dominance of the chip industry.

The New York Times - Tech

"This will be a breakthrough that will transform lives," said the UK international development secretary, Andrew Mitchell.

The Guardian

Six of her pictures were published in Life magazine, a breakthrough that brought her confidence and recognition.

The New York Times

It's a breakthrough that has allowed us to have a tremendously increased capability to see long range.

The New York Times

The agreement is a breakthrough that could open the way to the recovery of dozens of sunken vessels.

The New York Times

Marcello Lippi's team averted that with a breakthrough that encapsulated the slight yet clear superiority they had enjoyed.

The Guardian - Sport

Scientists have harnessed the principles of photosynthesis to develop a new way of producing hydrogen – in a breakthrough that offers a possible solution to global energy problems.

Independent

In Utah, officials hailed the offer as a breakthrough that could defuse rising tensions over the closing of the state's five national parks.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a breakthrough that", ensure the noun following 'that' is directly related to and expands upon the breakthrough itself, enhancing clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a breakthrough that" for minor improvements or changes. Reserve it for genuinely significant advancements that have a notable impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a breakthrough that" functions as a noun phrase introducing a relative clause. It highlights a significant discovery, innovation, or advancement and is typically followed by a clause that explains or elaborates on the nature and impact of this breakthrough. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used to introduce important developments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a breakthrough that" is a versatile phrase commonly used to introduce a significant advancement, discovery, or innovation. It is grammatically correct and particularly prevalent in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase serves to highlight the importance and potential impact of such developments. To use it effectively, clearly articulate the nature and significance of the breakthrough in the subsequent clause, avoiding exaggeration and ensuring relevance. Some possible alternatives include "a game changer that", "a major advancement that", and "a key development that", though the best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major advancement that

Stresses the size and importance of the development.

a game changer that

Emphasizes the transformative impact, differing in intensity from a general breakthrough.

a leap forward that

Emphasizes progress and advancement.

a watershed moment that

Highlights a turning point, adding a sense of historical significance.

a key development that

Highlights the importance of its role.

a turning point that

Focuses on the change in direction or momentum.

an innovation that

Focuses specifically on the novelty and inventiveness of the advancement.

a critical step that

Conveys the importance of its place in an ordered process.

a paradigm shift that

Indicates a fundamental change in thinking or approach.

a revolutionary concept that

Focuses on the radically new nature of the idea.

FAQs

How can I use "a breakthrough that" in a sentence?

Use "a breakthrough that" to introduce an innovation, discovery, or significant advancement, followed by an explanation of its impact or importance. For example: "The new technology represents a breakthrough that could revolutionize the industry".

What are some alternatives to "a breakthrough that"?

You can use alternatives like "a major advancement that", "a key development that", or "a game changer that" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a breakthrough that" in formal writing?

Yes, "a breakthrough that" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing scientific, technological, or medical advancements. Ensure the subsequent explanation is clear and well-supported.

What's the difference between "a breakthrough that" and "a finding that"?

"A breakthrough that" emphasizes a significant advancement or discovery, while "a finding that" simply refers to a discovery, without necessarily implying a major impact. A breakthrough is generally more impactful than a finding.