a clear advantage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear advantage" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means having a definite or obvious benefit over others. Example: "Having a clear advantage in the job market, the candidate with a degree in computer science was hired over others with less relevant qualifications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Caruana now had a clear advantage.

The New York Times

The government has a clear advantage.

The New York Times

That's a clear advantage for us.

The Economist

Youth alone is by no means a clear advantage.

The New York Times

By the end neither man had a clear advantage.

The Guardian

Still, she said, they provide a clear advantage.

The New York Times - Sports

Under the law, the Mayor has a clear advantage.

The New York Times

In both levels we develop novel methods and observe a clear advantage to integration.

University of California, Berkeley

Analytical calculation methods have a clear advantage when designing multi-layered composite cylindrical shells.

Composite Structures

In the homogeneous catalytic reaction, HBSPES showed a clear advantage in the apparent turnover frequency (TOF).

Polymer

Scott says the Nets possess a clear advantage at point guard.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a clear advantage", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates how the advantage is beneficial or impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear advantage" when the benefit is subtle or only potentially advantageous. Ensure the advantage is readily apparent and not based on speculation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear advantage" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a distinct and easily recognizable benefit, as confirmed by Ludwig. The word "clear" modifies "advantage", emphasizing its obvious nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a clear advantage" signifies a distinct and readily apparent benefit, used across diverse contexts like news, science, and academia. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. When employing this phrase, ensure the advantage is genuinely obvious and impactful, avoiding overstatement in subtle or speculative scenarios. Consider alternatives such as "distinct edge" or "significant lead" for nuanced expression. By understanding its function and context, you can effectively convey the presence of a distinct superiority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distinct edge

Replaces "advantage" with "edge" emphasizing a slight but noticeable superiority.

a significant lead

Uses "lead" instead of "advantage", suggesting a position ahead of others.

a marked benefit

Substitutes "advantage" with "benefit", highlighting a positive outcome.

a decisive upper hand

Replaces the general "advantage" with a more forceful "upper hand", indicating control.

a noticeable superiority

Emphasizes the quality of being better than others, using more formal language.

a definite merit

Swaps "advantage" for "merit", suggesting a positive quality that deserves praise.

an obvious strength

Focuses on an attribute that provides superiority, using "strength".

a considerable asset

Highlights the value of the advantage, framing it as an "asset".

a strategic advantage

Adds the element of strategy, implying that the advantage is part of a plan.

a competitive advantage

Specifically focuses on advantages in a competitive context.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear advantage" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear advantage" to describe a situation where one option or entity has a distinct benefit over others. For example, "The new software has "a clear advantage" in terms of user-friendliness".

What are some alternatives to saying "a clear advantage"?

Alternatives include "a distinct edge", "a significant lead", or "a marked benefit". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a very clear advantage"?

While not strictly incorrect, "a very clear advantage" can sometimes be redundant. The word "clear" already implies a high degree of obviousness. Consider whether adding "very" strengthens the statement or simply adds unnecessary emphasis.

What's the difference between "a clear advantage" and "an advantage"?

"An advantage" simply indicates a beneficial aspect. "A clear advantage" emphasizes that the benefit is obvious and easily recognized. The addition of "clear" highlights the prominence of the benefit.