a real improvement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real improvement" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a significant or genuine enhancement in a situation, process, or product. Example: "The new software update has resulted in a real improvement in system performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

There's a real improvement of sentiment".

The New York Times

The green paper is a real improvement.

The Guardian

"But for Russia it was a real improvement!

The New Yorker

Jicama slaw with mango is tangy and refreshing, a real improvement over cabbage.

The New York Times - Arts

"That is a real improvement in our productivity," said Andrew S. Grove, Intel's chairman.

The New York Times

The drive has brought with it a real improvement in pay/working conditions and better pensions for the sector.

The Guardian - Money

"This is the first time that I have seen a real improvement, one that I think is possibly sustainable".

The New York Times - Tech

Only if they understood the benefits to society of a real improvement in the criminal justice system.

The New York Times

A real improvement in air travel is possible by shifting many passengers out of crowded hub airports.

The New York Times

Israel has eased checkpoints this year — a real improvement in quality of life — but the system is intrinsically malignant.

The New York Times

Lixisenatide and liraglutide offer a real improvement by treating the basis of the disease and, therefore, preventing degeneration".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a real improvement", ensure the context clearly demonstrates how the improvement is genuine and impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "a real improvement" when the change is minimal or insignificant. The phrase implies a noticeable and positive difference, so ensure the context warrants such a description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real improvement" functions as a noun phrase where "real" acts as an adjective emphasizing the genuineness of the improvement. As Ludwig AI explains, it's used to describe a significant enhancement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a real improvement" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a genuine positive change. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, ranging from news reports to scientific discussions. To ensure accuracy, use this phrase when there's a clear and demonstrable enhancement. Remember to avoid overstating the impact of the improvement. Alternatives such as "a tangible improvement" or "a significant advancement" can offer slightly different shades of meaning, depending on the context. The analysis reveals it's frequently found in "News & Media" and "Science" sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tangible improvement

Focuses on the perceptibility and concreteness of the improvement.

a significant advancement

Emphasizes the magnitude and importance of the progress made.

a marked enhancement

Highlights the noticeable and distinct quality of the improvement.

a considerable step forward

Implies movement in a positive direction, suggesting progress toward a goal.

a genuine upgrade

Conveys authenticity and value, suggesting that the change is a legitimate improvement.

a positive development

Highlights the beneficial and favorable nature of the change.

a substantial gain

Focuses on the measurable or quantifiable aspect of the improvement.

a worthwhile change

Emphasizes the value and benefit derived from the alteration.

an appreciable difference

Highlights the noticeable and recognizable quality of the change.

a definite upgrade

Implies clarity and obviousness of the positive change.

FAQs

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

Use "a real improvement" to highlight a genuine positive change, as in "The new management system brought "a real improvement" in productivity".

What are some alternatives to "a real improvement"?

Alternatives include "a tangible improvement", "a significant advancement", or "a marked enhancement", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a real improvement"?

It's appropriate when there is a clear and demonstrable positive change or enhancement in something. It should not be used for minor or negligible changes.

Is "a real improvement" different from "an apparent improvement"?

Yes, "a real improvement" indicates a genuine and actual positive change, while "an apparent improvement" suggests that the change may only seem positive on the surface and may not be truly effective or beneficial.