a high degree

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a high degree' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to express the amount, level, or intensity of something, such as a feeling or quality. For example, "The diplomat showed a high degree of integrity in the face of tremendous pressure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There was a high degree of individualism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A high degree of courtesy is expected.

The Economist

with a high degree of professional polish.

The New Yorker

A high degree of scepticism pervades.

The Guardian

There's a high degree of synchronicity.

The Guardian - Arts

to provide a high degree of rigor.

Chemical Engineering Science

I would say a high degree of specificity.

The Guardian - Books

I have a high degree of sensitivity, always have.

The Guardian

He suspected a high degree of illegal activity.

The New York Times

I've completed a task with a high degree of difficulty.

The Guardian - Opinion

They both existed with a high degree of social conformity.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a high degree" to describe an abstract quality, ensure the noun it modifies is equally abstract for consistency in tone and meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "a high degree" with concrete nouns where a more specific quantifier (e.g., "large number", "significant amount") would be more appropriate. Using it with concrete nouns can sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a high degree" functions as an intensifier, modifying nouns to indicate a significant level or extent of a particular quality or characteristic. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase effectively communicates the intensity of an attribute.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a high degree" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the intensity or extent of a quality or characteristic. It's grammatically sound and widely accepted, as Ludwig AI confirms. Occurring frequently in News & Media and Science, this phrase is suitable for various registers, though care should be taken to pair it with abstract nouns to maintain a natural tone. Remember to consider alternative phrases like "a significant extent" when aiming for subtle variations in meaning. Overall, "a high degree" is a valuable addition to one's vocabulary, allowing for precise and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant extent

Emphasizes the notable amount or proportion, focusing on the impact rather than the precision of "degree".

a considerable measure

Highlights the substantial quantity or amount, implying a noticeable effect or presence.

a great level

Focuses on the height or intensity, suggesting a strong presence or manifestation of something.

a marked extent

Indicates a clearly noticeable or distinct quantity, highlighting the obviousness of the amount.

a substantial amount

Stresses the large quantity or volume, suitable when discussing measurable aspects.

a notable quantity

Highlights the worthiness of being noted, emphasizing the importance or relevance of the amount.

an extreme amount

Indicates the presence of something at an utmost level, with the difference being a more intense depiction.

a profound measure

Implies a deep or intense quantity or impact, suggesting a transformative or far-reaching effect.

a vast quantity

Emphasizes the immensity of the amount, suitable for uncountable or abstract nouns.

an intensive amount

Denotes something done with strong focus or effort, implying a concentrated or thorough quality.

FAQs

What does "a high degree" mean?

The phrase "a high degree" signifies a considerable level, extent, or intensity of something. It's used to indicate that a particular quality, characteristic, or action is present to a significant extent.

How can I use "a high degree" in a sentence?

You can use "a high degree" to describe abstract nouns, such as "a high degree of accuracy", "a high degree of professionalism", or "a high degree of sensitivity". It indicates a notable level of the quality being described.

What are some alternatives to "a high degree"?

Some alternatives to "a high degree" include "a significant extent", "a considerable measure", or "a great level", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "high degree of" or "high level of"?

Both "high degree of" and "high level of" are acceptable, but "high degree of" often implies a more abstract or qualitative assessment, while "high level of" can be used more broadly. The best choice depends on the specific context and the noun being modified.