a quantum leap

USAGE SUMMARY

"a quantum leap" is a correct and commonly-used phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a great, sudden, or dramatic change or improvement. For example, "After months of hard work, the team achieved a quantum leap in profits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It's a quantum leap forward".

The New York Times

I say we need a quantum leap.

The New Yorker

This was "a quantum leap," Elroy thought.

The New Yorker

We need to make a quantum leap".

The New York Times

You have to make a quantum leap.

The Guardian

Hoyt calls it a "quantum leap" for the archery industry.

The New York Times - Sports

But the Romney candidacy represents literally a quantum leap forward.

The New York Times

For Napoli these signings represent a quantum leap".

Independent

And this is the third great revolution, a quantum leap.

The New York Times

"But the Duesenberg was a quantum leap more advanced".

The New York Times

But he may be about to make a quantum leap.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "a quantum leap", ensure the context clearly demonstrates the substantial and transformative nature of the change you are describing.

Common error

Do not use "a quantum leap" to describe incremental changes or improvements that do not represent a significant breakthrough or transformation. Overusing the phrase dilutes its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a quantum leap" functions as a noun phrase describing a significant and sudden advancement or change. It is often used to highlight the magnitude and impact of a particular development, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a quantum leap" is a commonly used phrase to describe a significant and impactful change or advancement. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. It's suitable for neutral and formal contexts, with its primary usage observed in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business domains. To ensure effective communication, use this phrase to highlight substantial transformations and avoid applying it to minor, incremental improvements. Consider alternatives like "a monumental shift" or "a transformative advancement" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant breakthrough

Indicates a crucial discovery that overcomes a major obstacle.

a groundbreaking innovation

Highlights the novelty and impact of the advancement.

a step change

Suggests a significant improvement that is distinct from gradual progress.

a transformative advancement

Focuses on the ability to change something fundamentally.

a game-changing development

Implies a fundamental shift in strategy or approach.

a monumental shift

Emphasizes the scale and importance of the change.

a paradigm shift

Highlights a change from one way of thinking to another.

a radical improvement

Stresses the extent and depth of the betterment.

a sea change

Implies a dramatic shift in attitude, or conditions.

a dramatic upturn

Focuses on a sudden and considerable improvement, especially in economic terms.

FAQs

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

You can use "a quantum leap" to describe a significant advancement or change. For example: "The new technology represents "a quantum leap" in medical treatment."

What's a good substitute for "a quantum leap"?

Alternatives include "a monumental shift", "a transformative advancement", or "a significant breakthrough" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "quantum leap forward"?

Yes, "quantum leap forward" is a valid and commonly used variant of ""a quantum leap"", emphasizing the progression or advancement aspect of the change.

What distinguishes "a quantum leap" from "a giant leap"?

"A quantum leap" often refers to a sudden and significant change or advancement, while "a giant leap" typically implies a major step or achievement, often in a more general or literal sense.