a considerable fuss

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a considerable fuss" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant amount of commotion or disturbance over something, often implying that the reaction is excessive or unwarranted. Example: "The announcement of the new policy caused a considerable fuss among the employees, leading to numerous discussions and debates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Sotheby's is making a considerable fuss over the sale.

The New York Times - Arts

In a piece called "Boomerangs & Duds," dealing with the silence of the press about the newspaper-gag clause in the Taft-Hartley Act, I wrote that the newspaper editors had even less excuse than usual for ignoring what they chose to, since they all receive "In Fact" gratis from George Seldes, its publisher, every week & since "In Fact" made a considerable fuss about the matter.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

After London 2012 considerable fuss and fanfare was rightly made about the contribution made by Team GB's women to the nation's medal tally.

The Guardian

Ashley Williams proved a considerable barrier.

Independent

That is a considerable understatement.

The New Yorker

But a considerable challenge remains.

The New Yorker

A considerable Internet furor ensued.

The New Yorker

Malaysia produces a considerable volume.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A considerable wine selection.

The New York Times

A considerable gap.

The Guardian

A considerable silence followed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a considerable fuss" when you want to downplay the validity or importance of the reaction to a situation. It implies that the reaction is excessive or unwarranted.

Common error

While acceptable, "a considerable fuss" may sound less formal than alternatives like "significant controversy" or "notable disturbance." Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a considerable fuss" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state of heightened activity or concern, indicating that something has caused significant disturbance or excitement, as exemplified in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a considerable fuss" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant amount of commotion or excitement, often implying that the reaction is excessive or unwarranted. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English, although it is not exceedingly common. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for a variety of contexts, including news and general descriptive writing. While alternatives like "significant commotion" or "notable disturbance" may be more suitable for formal contexts, "a considerable fuss" effectively conveys the sense of disproportionate attention or disturbance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant commotion

Emphasizes the disturbance and activity generated.

a major uproar

Highlights the noise and public expression of disapproval.

a great deal of excitement

Focuses on the heightened emotional state surrounding an event.

a big to-do

Suggests an elaborate and possibly unnecessary display of attention.

a notable controversy

Indicates a public disagreement or dispute.

a marked agitation

Highlights the state of anxiety or restlessness.

a substantial stir

Emphasizes the act of causing excitement or trouble.

a notable disturbance

Focuses on the disruption of peace or order.

significant brouhaha

Highlights the exaggerated reaction to an event.

major kerfuffle

Suggests a minor dispute that has been blown out of proportion.

FAQs

What does "a considerable fuss" mean?

The phrase "a considerable fuss" means a significant amount of commotion, excitement, or concern, often implying that the reaction is greater than necessary.

What can I say instead of "a considerable fuss"?

You can use alternatives like "a significant commotion", "a major uproar", or "a great deal of excitement" depending on the context.

Is "a considerable fuss" formal or informal?

The phrase "a considerable fuss" leans towards being less formal. For professional or academic writing, consider using alternatives such as "significant controversy" or "notable disturbance".

How do I use "a considerable fuss" in a sentence?

You can use "a considerable fuss" to describe a situation where there is a lot of unnecessary excitement or disturbance. For example: "The announcement of the new policy caused "a considerable fuss" among the employees."