a large sum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a large sum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a significant amount of money or resources. Example: "After years of saving, she finally had a large sum to invest in her dream home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is a large sum of money.

The New York Times - Magazine

Yet, actually, €3.8m isn't such a large sum.

The Guardian - Money

That is a large sum, but an affordable one.

The Economist

Don't believe the hype: £6bn is a large sum, but not quite as it seems.

The Guardian - Business

Mills said she had invested a large sum in the company, but the investment had failed.

The Guardian

But they lie about lots of things (like "we have a large sum of gold").

The New Yorker

"He bought it for quite a large sum of money," Mr. Helprin recalled.

The New York Times

Receiving a large sum, she rents a cottage & moves in with the cat Lucy.

The New Yorker

Those fees can compound into a large sum over 30 years.

The New York Times

"That's a large sum of money in a market where raising capital is tough.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Multiple ACT cocktails would run about $1.30 per treatment course--a large sum for poorer countries.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a large sum", specify the currency or context to provide clarity to the reader. For example, "a large sum of euros" or "a large sum for a small business".

Common error

Avoid using "a large sum" when the amount is not truly significant within the given context. For instance, describing a few dollars as "a large sum" would be an exaggeration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a large sum" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It acts as the subject, object, or complement in a sentence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is used to denote a significant quantity of something, most often money.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

12%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a large sum" is a versatile and frequently used expression to denote a significant amount of money or resources. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in various contexts. The phrase is particularly common in news and media, but also appears in encyclopedias, scientific publications, and wikis, as the collected examples show. While "a large sum" is generally appropriate for formal and informal contexts, providing specific details, such as the currency or relevant context, will greatly improve clarity. If you're looking for alternative ways to express the same idea, consider using "a substantial amount", "a considerable sum", or "a significant figure". By understanding the nuances of "a large sum" and avoiding common pitfalls, you can effectively communicate your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a substantial amount

Emphasizes the considerable size or quantity, focusing on the significance of the amount.

an enormous amount

This phrase replaces large with enormous, maintaining the general idea, but suggesting a larger quantity.

a great deal of money

Uses the term deal, but otherwise expresses a similar sentiment.

a considerable quantity

Focuses on the amount being noteworthy or significant.

a significant figure

Highlights the importance or impact of the sum, often in a financial or statistical context.

a sizable portion

Highlights that the amount is a notable fraction of a total.

a hefty price

Implies that the amount represents a significant cost or expense.

a pile of money

This is more informal, suggesting a large, unorganized quantity of money.

a vast fortune

This is a more idiomatic expression, suggesting extreme wealth.

a king's ransom

Uses hyperbole to describe an extremely large and valuable sum.

FAQs

How can I use "a large sum" in a sentence?

You can use "a large sum" to describe a significant amount of money or resources, as in, "She inherited "a large sum" from her grandfather" or "The project required "a large sum" of investment".

What phrases are similar to "a large sum"?

Similar phrases include "a substantial amount", "a considerable sum", or "a significant amount". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a large sum" in formal writing?

Yes, "a large sum" is generally appropriate for formal writing. However, for greater precision, consider specifying the exact amount or using a more descriptive term like "a significant investment" if applicable.

How does the meaning of "a large sum" change with context?

The meaning of "a large sum" is relative to the context. What constitutes "a large sum" for an individual might be insignificant for a corporation. Always consider the context when using this phrase to ensure it accurately reflects the amount's importance.