a rather grand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a rather grand" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is impressive, elaborate, or of significant size or importance, often in a somewhat subjective manner. Example: "The ballroom was adorned with a rather grand chandelier that captured everyone's attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

It was a rather grand plan.

The New Yorker

That's a rather grand ambition, no doubt.

MIT Technology Review

Pevear's fidelity to Dostoyevsky's "sloppiness" comes from a rather grand ambition.

The New Yorker

The entrance is dominated by a rather grand, dark wood bar.

The Guardian - Travel

Attenborough's is a rather grand sort of modesty, heartfelt but extravagant.

The Guardian - Film

New to the town, he approached the only person in sight, a rather grand lady.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

(Ms. Pourfar employs a rather grand-sounding accent).

The New York Times

The elaborate set, a rather grand-looking cul-de-sac made up of several opulent homes and Mr. Kline's construction site, was put together on land formerly occupied by the defunct Marineland aquatic park.

The New York Times

In the living room, which is at the same time cozy and airy (all its windows look directly out to greenery -- another Castaing inspiration), a rather grand-looking tufted sofa, covered in teal blue mohair velvet, is paired with a Modernist cork-topped coffee table by the designer Paul Frankl and two rustic-looking chairs by Charlotte Perriand.

The New York Times - Magazine

Some other results that came out this week, however, are on a rather grander scale.

The Economist

On a rather grander scale are the UK Catalyst Awards, billed as 'the community awards for social technology'.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a place or event, use "a rather grand" to create a vivid image in the reader's mind, suggesting both size and importance.

Common error

Avoid using "a rather grand" too frequently, as it can become repetitive and lose its impact. Vary your descriptive language to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

Adjective Phrase: "A rather grand" functions as a descriptive phrase modifying a noun. It serves to describe the quality or characteristic of something as being impressively large or elaborate. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase is used to depict various settings, objects, and ambitions as significantly impressive, which aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Travel

15%

Arts

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a rather grand" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe something impressive or elaborate. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news, travel, and arts writing. The phrase conveys admiration while sometimes subtly understating the level of grandeur. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Ludwig's examples and the analysis of authoritative sources show its widespread usage in reputable publications, making it a reliable choice for expressing understated elegance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quite magnificent

Emphasizes the impressive and imposing nature of something.

somewhat majestic

Highlights the stateliness and dignity of something.

fairly imposing

Focuses on the dominant and impressive presence of something.

pretty impressive

Highlights the admirable and noteworthy qualities of something.

remarkably stately

Emphasizes the dignified elegance of something.

decidedly palatial

Indicates that something resembles a palace in its grandeur.

genuinely luxurious

Highlights the lavishness and opulence of something.

noticeably elaborate

Emphasizes the intricate and detailed nature of something.

somewhat opulent

Indicates wealth and extravagance.

distinctly monumental

Emphasizes the large scale and lasting impact of something.

FAQs

How can I use "a rather grand" in a sentence?

You can use "a rather grand" to describe something impressive or elaborate. For example, "The hotel lobby featured "a rather grand staircase"."

What are some alternatives to "a rather grand"?

Alternatives include "quite magnificent", "somewhat majestic", or "fairly imposing". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a rather grand" in formal writing?

Yes, "a rather grand" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when aiming for a slightly understated or elegant tone. However, consider the specific audience and context to ensure it aligns with the overall style.

What's the difference between "a rather grand" and "very grand"?

"A rather grand" suggests a slightly more nuanced or subtle level of grandeur compared to "very grand". "Very grand" directly emphasizes the high degree of impressiveness, whereas "a rather grand" can imply a touch of reservation or understated appreciation.