a comfortable margin

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a comfortable margin" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation where there is a sufficient amount of space, time, or resources to ensure safety or success. Example: "The project was completed ahead of schedule, giving us a comfortable margin to address any unforeseen issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He won Michigan by a comfortable margin.

The New York Times

Mr. Obama won those early votes by a comfortable margin.

The New York Times

Everton's response to throwing away a comfortable margin was emphatic.

The Guardian - Sport

Yao played well, scoring 30 points, but Italy won by a comfortable margin.

Princeton University

Johnson had a comfortable margin over Joey Logano, the runner-up.

The New York Times

That's still a comfortable margin, but the trend is in the underdog's favor.

The New Yorker

The English Premier League rakes in the most by a comfortable margin.

The Economist

With harmony on the Nile and some help, Sudan alone could add a comfortable margin.

The New York Times

The United States already has a comfortable margin of dominance in all these areas.

The New York Times

Running as a Democrat in an overwhelmingly Republican state, Sebelius nonetheless won by a comfortable margin.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Engineers reckon 20%, roughly the figure today, is a comfortable margin.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing numerical data, use "a comfortable margin" to underscore that the difference or surplus is significant and reassuring, conveying stability or reduced risk.

Common error

Avoid using "a comfortable margin" to imply absolute certainty. While it suggests a reduced risk of failure, unexpected events can still alter outcomes. Use it to communicate relative security, not invulnerability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a comfortable margin" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, indicating the extent or degree to which something exceeds a required or expected level. As Ludwig AI suggests, it signals the presence of a sufficient buffer or surplus.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a comfortable margin" is a versatile phrase used to express that something exceeds the necessary amount, providing a sense of security or reduced risk. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media, encyclopedias and science. When writing, use this phrase to convey confidence and assurance, but avoid implying absolute certainty. While alternative phrases like "a substantial lead" or "a healthy surplus" can be used, "a comfortable margin" uniquely balances quantity and reassurance. Be aware that it is not interchangeable with "wide margin", because this last one express only a big amount, while "a comfortable margin" expresses a sense of confidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a substantial lead

Focuses on the size of the lead, emphasizing it is considerable.

a significant advantage

Highlights the benefit gained, indicating it is noteworthy.

a healthy surplus

Emphasizes abundance and security in resources.

an ample buffer

Suggests a safeguard or reserve is more than adequate.

a generous allowance

Focuses on the permission or provision being more than sufficient.

a wide berth

Implies giving plenty of space or avoiding closeness for safety.

a safe distance

Highlights the aspect of security and avoiding risk.

an easy victory

Focuses on the lack of difficulty in achieving success.

a decisive win

Emphasizes the clarity and conclusiveness of the outcome.

more than enough

Directly states the quantity exceeds what is required.

FAQs

How can I use "a comfortable margin" in a sentence?

You can use "a comfortable margin" to describe situations where there is a buffer or surplus that provides reassurance or reduces risk. For example, "The team finished the project with "a comfortable margin" of time before the deadline."

What are some alternatives to "a comfortable margin"?

Alternatives include "a substantial lead", "a significant advantage", or "a healthy surplus", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "comfortable margin" or "wide margin"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "a comfortable margin" often implies a sense of security or reassurance, while "wide margin" simply emphasizes the size of the difference. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Can "a comfortable margin" be used in financial contexts?

Yes, "a comfortable margin" is frequently used in financial contexts to describe situations where there is a sufficient buffer of resources or profits to ensure stability. For example, "The company maintains "a comfortable margin" of cash reserves to weather economic downturns."