a high threshold for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a high threshold for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a person or system requires a significant level of something (like tolerance, acceptance, or performance) before a reaction or change occurs. Example: "The new software has a high threshold for user input, ensuring that only the most relevant data is processed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I also have a high threshold for clutter".

The New York Times - Style

"Jumping requires fearlessness, a fair amount of agility, and a high threshold for pain," Prochazka said.

The New York Times - Sports

"He was a naturally tough kid with a high threshold for pain.

The New York Times - Sports

There is a high threshold for compulsory reporting at genuine personal risk, one not met by a bad paint job.

The New York Times - Magazine

A better approach to recall of elected officials is to set a high threshold for removal.

The New York Times

It doesn't require great cleavage or washboard abs or a high threshold for pain.

The New York Times

"But they're keeping off parasites, and they seem to have a high threshold for pain".

The New York Times - Science

He says that people his age have little to lose in the current crisis, not enough energy for panic and a high threshold for adversity.

The New York Times

I don't throw around racism often, I have a high threshold for it because I'm so anti-PC, but he is a definite racist".

The Guardian

He said that while there may be a high threshold for proving juror misconduct, the statements by Mr. Allo represented "criminal conduct".

The New York Times

"Setting a high threshold for the care system is a bit like going to the doctor with a chest infection and being told to come back with pneumonia.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a high threshold for", ensure the context clearly defines what requires a high level to be reached. This enhances clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a high threshold for" when the intended meaning is better conveyed by phrases indicating acceptance or willingness. "Threshold" implies a limit, while acceptance implies agreement or allowance. For instance, instead of saying someone has "a high threshold for" bad behavior, consider "a high tolerance for" or "a considerable acceptance of" minor errors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a high threshold for" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes the level at which something becomes effective or noticeable, similar to the examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a high threshold for" is a versatile phrase that denotes a significant requirement before a response or effect is triggered. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is grammatically sound and widely used across various domains. This analysis underscores its utility in conveying concepts related to tolerance, acceptance, and required levels in both formal and informal contexts. To ensure clarity, remember to specify what is requiring this high standard. Common related phrases include "a significant tolerance for" and "a substantial requirement for", each carrying slight nuances in meaning. The usage of "a high threshold for" is very common across News & Media and Science.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant tolerance for

Emphasizes the ability to endure or withstand something to a considerable degree.

a considerable acceptance of

Highlights the willingness to acknowledge or approve something, even if not ideal.

a substantial requirement for

Focuses on the necessary level or amount needed for a particular purpose.

a stringent criterion for

Indicates a strict standard or benchmark that must be met.

a demanding prerequisite for

Stresses the necessary condition or qualification that must be fulfilled beforehand.

a strong predisposition to

Highlights an inclination towards something, often implying a natural tendency.

a marked sensitivity to

Indicates a heightened awareness or responsiveness to specific stimuli.

an elevated expectation of

Emphasizes the anticipation of something at a higher level than usual.

an increased vulnerability to

Highlights a greater susceptibility to harm or negative effects.

a reduced susceptibility to

Highlights a lower chance to get negative effects or harm.

FAQs

How can I use "a high threshold for" in a sentence?

You can use "a high threshold for" to indicate a high level of tolerance or requirement before a reaction or effect is noticeable. For example, "The company has "a high threshold for risk" before changing its investment strategy".

What's the difference between "a high threshold for" and "a high tolerance for"?

"A high threshold for" generally implies a point that must be exceeded before something happens, while "a high tolerance for" indicates an ability to endure something without negative effects. The distinction often depends on whether you're emphasizing a limit or an endurance capacity.

Are there situations where using "a low threshold for" is more appropriate than "a high threshold for"?

Yes, "a low threshold for" is more appropriate when you want to indicate that something happens easily or with minimal provocation. For instance, "The security system has "a low threshold for error", triggering alarms with even slight anomalies".

What are some common contexts where "a high threshold for" is typically used?

"A high threshold for" is commonly used in contexts related to pain tolerance, risk assessment, acceptance of mistakes, and requirements for triggering specific actions. It's also frequently used when talking about "a high threshold for stimulation".