a leap forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a leap forward" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a significant or sudden improvement. For example, "The new software has been a leap forward in productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The scale is a leap forward.

The New York Times

Even that represents a leap forward.

The New York Times

Still, the indictment is a leap forward.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was a leap forward, beyond electricity and into electronics.

The New Yorker

Suddenly, hopes of a leap forward on immigration are rising.

The Economist

Some expect a leap forward for the coalition's education reforms.

The Economist

"This is a leap forward in terms of transparency.

The Guardian

"We needed innovation in the ministries to take a leap forward.

The New York Times

These promised a leap forward in the much-hyped field of regenerative medicine.

The Economist

It was corny, sure, but it did represent something of a leap forward in broadcast technology.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Still, just getting the car to market would represent a leap forward for a Chinese manufacturer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a leap forward" when you want to emphasize that something is a significant improvement or advancement over what existed before. It suggests a considerable degree of progress, not just a minor adjustment.

Common error

Avoid using "a leap forward" to describe small or incremental changes. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the progress is truly substantial and transformative, not for minor tweaks or adjustments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a leap forward" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a predicate nominative or object of a preposition. According to Ludwig, it indicates a significant advancement or improvement. Examples show it describing progress in technology, medicine, and various fields.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

26%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a leap forward" is a frequently used noun phrase signifying a substantial advancement or improvement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and appears most commonly in news and media, science, and academic contexts. When writing, reserve this phrase for situations where the progress is truly significant and transformative. While versatile, avoid overusing it for minor adjustments. Consider alternatives such as "a major advancement" or "a significant breakthrough" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major advancement

Emphasizes the degree of progress as substantial and significant.

a significant breakthrough

Highlights overcoming an obstacle to achieve a notable success.

a marked improvement

Focuses on the noticeable enhancement in quality or performance.

a quantum leap

Suggests a dramatic and fundamental change or advancement.

a step change

Indicates a distinct and significant alteration from the previous state.

a giant stride

Implies considerable progress made with each step.

a forward surge

Conveys a sudden and powerful movement ahead.

a great stride forward

Stresses the greatness of progress in a forward direction.

a progressive advancement

Highlights gradual but steady progress.

a step up

Focuses on reaching a higher level or status.

FAQs

How can I use "a leap forward" in a sentence?

You can use "a leap forward" to describe significant progress or advancement in various contexts. For example, "The new technology represents "a leap forward" in medical treatment".

What phrases are similar to "a leap forward"?

Similar phrases include "a major advancement", "a significant breakthrough", or "a quantum leap". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a leap forward" in formal writing?

Yes, "a leap forward" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing significant progress in fields like science, technology, or business. However, ensure the context warrants such a strong descriptor.

What is the difference between "a step forward" and "a leap forward"?

"A step forward" implies gradual progress, while "a leap forward" suggests a more substantial and rapid advancement. Use "a leap forward" when the progress is significant and transformative, rather than incremental.