a generous leeway

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a generous leeway" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing flexibility or allowance in a particular situation, often in terms of time, space, or resources. Example: "The project manager provided a generous leeway for the team to complete the tasks, understanding that unforeseen challenges might arise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

With that kind of time frame, and those costs, Mr. Cameron would ordinarily expect generous leeway in making a decision.

The New York Times

But there was a flip side: Many of the top veteran drivers in Chevrolets, Fords and Pontiacs grumbled Thursday that Nascar had given the Dodges generous leeway to make the comeback smoother.

The New York Times - Sports

A generous holiday allowance?

Independent

Debi was generous, a generous soul.

The New Yorker

A generous offer.

The Economist

A generous gift?

The New York Times

He has a generous talent.

The New Yorker

Professor Ludwik Finkelstein was a generous person.

Measurement

Why such a generous cut?

The New York Times

"It was a generous thing".

The New Yorker

It's a generous meal".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a generous leeway", ensure the context clearly defines what type of allowance is being granted—time, resources, or deviation from a specific standard. This adds clarity and prevents misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "a generous leeway" in situations where the allowance is minimal or inconsequential. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility, making it sound exaggerated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a generous leeway" functions as a noun phrase, where 'generous' modifies 'leeway'. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating the provision of significant flexibility or allowance. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a generous leeway" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the provision of significant flexibility or allowance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While its frequency is relatively rare, it effectively conveys the idea of granting someone freedom to deviate from strict rules or standards. When using this phrase, ensure the type of allowance—time, resources, or deviation from a standard—is clear to avoid misinterpretations. Alternatives such as "ample flexibility" or "considerable latitude" can be used to provide similar meaning with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ample flexibility

Emphasizes the abundance of flexibility, shifting the focus from allowance to the degree of flexibility available.

considerable latitude

Highlights the extent of freedom or discretion given, differing in tone by using 'latitude' instead of 'leeway'.

significant allowance

Focuses on the amount of allowance provided, using 'allowance' directly instead of 'leeway'.

broad discretion

Emphasizes the freedom to make decisions, changing the focus from a permitted range to decision-making power.

substantial margin

Highlights the buffer or extra space available, particularly useful in contexts involving error or uncertainty.

extended breathing room

Uses a more metaphorical term to suggest additional time or space for a task.

wide berth

Suggests avoiding close contact or strict adherence, differing significantly in connotation by implying avoidance.

ample margin for error

Specifically addresses potential mistakes, narrowing the context to situations where errors are anticipated.

relaxed requirements

Indicates less stringent demands or expectations, shifting focus from the allowance to the loosening of rules.

generous amount of slack

Uses the term 'slack' to describe the amount of play or freedom, offering a less formal tone than 'leeway'.

FAQs

How can I use "a generous leeway" in a sentence?

You can use "a generous leeway" to describe situations where someone is given significant flexibility or allowance. For example, "The manager provided a generous leeway for the team to meet the deadline".

What are some alternatives to "a generous leeway"?

Alternatives include "ample flexibility", "considerable latitude", or "significant allowance", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say 'generous leeway' or 'ample leeway'?

Both 'generous leeway' and 'ample leeway' are grammatically correct. 'Generous' emphasizes the magnanimity of the allowance, while 'ample' focuses on the sufficiency of the allowance. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What does 'leeway' specifically imply in the phrase "a generous leeway"?

'Leeway' implies a degree of freedom to deviate from a strict rule or standard. In "a generous leeway", it suggests that significant flexibility is provided, allowing for deviations without penalty.