a real effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real effect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the tangible or significant impact of something in various contexts, such as scientific studies, social issues, or personal experiences. Example: "The new policy has had a real effect on employee productivity, leading to higher overall performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So, this is a real effect.

Yale University

No, that's definitely a real effect.

Cornell University

"He has a real effect on people.

The Guardian - Film

And it's had a real effect.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's a moderate difference but a real effect".

The New York Times - Health

And that will have a real effect on us all.

The Guardian - Tech

That grim legacy had a real effect on Chinese culture.

The Washington Post

All this has a real effect in court.

Harvard Business Review

He believes that eating invasives can have a real effect.

The New York Times

"Architecture has a real effect on us," she said.

The New York Times

Is that a real effect, or does that slow down [INAUDIBLE]?

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a real effect", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates the tangible or measurable nature of the effect you're describing. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

Avoid using "a real effect" when the impact is minimal or questionable. Quantify the effect or provide specific examples to strengthen your claim. Otherwise, consider using phrases that suggest a potential or anticipated effect, rather than a confirmed one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real effect" functions as a noun phrase within a sentence. According to Ludwig, it typically serves to highlight a tangible or significant impact resulting from an action, event, or policy. It emphasizes that the effect is genuine and not imagined or trivial.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a real effect" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe a tangible or significant impact. Ludwig indicates its suitability across various contexts, including academic, news, and general communication. To use the phrase effectively, ensure the context clearly demonstrates the measurable nature of the effect and avoid overstating its significance. Alternative phrases such as "a genuine impact" or "a significant impact" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Remember to support your claims with evidence to enhance credibility in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a genuine impact

Emphasizes authenticity and sincerity of the impact, suggesting it is not superficial.

a significant impact

Highlights the importance and scale of the effect, making it noticeable and consequential.

a tangible outcome

Focuses on the concrete and perceptible results, rather than abstract effects.

a noticeable difference

Stresses the ease with which the effect can be observed or detected.

a marked change

Indicates a clear and distinct alteration or transformation as a result.

a concrete result

Emphasizes the practical and measurable aspects of the effect.

a substantial influence

Highlights the power to sway or alter something significantly.

a demonstrable consequence

Stresses that the effect can be clearly proven or shown to exist.

a palpable effect

Suggests the effect is easily felt or perceived, almost tangible.

a material effect

Highlights the importance of the effect in terms of financial or practical implications.

FAQs

How can I use "a real effect" in a sentence?

You can use "a real effect" to describe tangible or significant impacts. For example, "The new policy had "a real effect" on employee morale" or "The medication had "a real effect" on reducing symptoms".

What can I say instead of "a real effect"?

You can use alternatives like "a genuine impact", "a significant impact", or "a noticeable difference" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a real effect" or "a significant effect"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a significant effect" emphasizes the importance or magnitude of the impact, while ""a real effect"" simply confirms that the impact is genuine and not illusory. The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

How can I ensure that the use of "a real effect" is credible in my writing?

To enhance credibility, provide specific evidence or data to support your claim. For example, instead of just saying "The changes had "a real effect"", specify what changed and by how much. Adding quantifiable details will strengthen your argument.