a great consolation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a great consolation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that provides comfort or relief in a difficult situation. Example: "After losing the match, the support from my friends was a great consolation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

No17 seed Karolina Pliskova wasn't exactly a great consolation prize.

The Guardian - Sport

My mother had just died, and it's a great consolation drink.

The New York Times - Travel

He said, "Art is a great consolation to the individual but it is useless against history".

The New Yorker

But the Nets will counter with Kidd, which is a great consolation for Scott.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a great consolation, it's not expensive, so you don't feel guilty".

The New York Times

It is a great consolation for me to know that you are entrusted into the care of such good people.

Princeton University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

You've gone up in my estimation (not that I expect that to be of any great consolation to you).

BBC

It will not feel like any great consolation but they did themselves and everyone involved with the Scottish rugby team proud.

BBC

Penelope Lively in the Financial Times described it as "an extended reflection on the fear of death and on that great consolation, religious belief.

The Guardian - Books

"The great consolation always comes in the form of Hitchcock," he said.

The New Yorker

If life is about choice, then fashion is its great consolation.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a great consolation", ensure that the context clearly establishes what is being consoled and what provides the consolation. This helps maintain clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a great consolation" to describe something that merely alleviates mild inconvenience. This phrase is best suited for situations involving significant distress or loss, as it implies a substantial degree of comfort and relief.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a great consolation" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object or subject complement in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct. Examples show it providing a description of relief or comfort after a negative event.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a great consolation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that effectively communicates significant comfort or relief in challenging circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for broad audiences. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly identifies what provides the comfort and avoid using it for minor inconveniences. Alternatives such as ""a significant comfort"" or ""a substantial relief"" can be used to express similar sentiments with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant comfort

Emphasizes the substantial level of comfort provided.

a considerable solace

Highlights the soothing or alleviating aspect of the consolation.

a substantial relief

Focuses on the reduction of distress or burden.

a real comfort

Indicates genuine and tangible comfort.

a source of comfort

Identifies something as providing comfort, without specifying the degree.

a welcome relief

Emphasizes the agreeable and desirable nature of the relief.

a heartwarming reassurance

Highlights the positive emotional aspect of reassurance.

a comforting thought

Focuses on the mental aspect of finding comfort.

a silver lining

Refers to a hopeful or positive aspect of a negative situation.

a bright spot

Highlights a positive element in an otherwise difficult situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a great consolation" in a sentence?

You can use "a great consolation" to describe something that provides significant comfort or relief in a difficult situation. For example, "After the loss, the support from her family was "a great consolation"".

What are some alternatives to "a great consolation"?

Alternatives include "a significant comfort", "a considerable solace", or "a substantial relief", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a great consolation" in formal writing?

Yes, "a great consolation" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, as it is a standard and widely understood expression. However, consider the context to ensure it appropriately reflects the level of distress and comfort involved.

What's the difference between "a great consolation" and "a small consolation"?

"A great consolation" implies a significant source of comfort or relief, while "a small consolation" suggests a minor or limited degree of comfort. The choice depends on the magnitude of the comfort provided relative to the distress experienced.