a significant absence of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant absence of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a notable lack or deficiency of something in a particular context. Example: "The report highlighted a significant absence of data on climate change impacts in the region."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

But the severe blemishes of the past two months - including Andy Gomarsall's wayward passing against Scotland, the 11 lineouts conceded to Ireland and a significant absence of creativity in the backs against Wales - suggest that their hard-earned reputation as a smoothly functioning rugby machine is in urgent need of restoration.

The Guardian - Sport

Our results demonstrate a significant absence of any detectable influence of sample drying on the spectra of the six substrates under study, and hence on parameters which are reflected in the spectra.

Vibrational Spectroscopy

The Wright's fixation index analysis showed a significant absence of genetic differentiation between allele populations.

Plosone

Another key infrastructure assessment, the hospital bed census, was included in six of the included assessment tools, representing a significant absence of basic structural information in these tools.

Health Policy and Planning

Harada et al. (2005) reported sex-independent renal clearances in humans that were 10−5-fold lower than the glomerular filtration rate indicating a significant absence of active renal excretion of PFOS and PFOA.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

As the Archbishop, Justin Welby, told Synod on Saturday, "What is clear to all of us is that there exists - and let's be honest about it - a very significant absence of trust between different groups".

Independent

Archbishop Welby acknowledged that a "very significant absence of trust" still exists in the Church of England between supporters and opponents of women bishops.

BBC

Speaking perhaps for all of them is "Studio Chair," Daan Padmos' gigantic straight-backed, brushed steel chair where, in the significant absence of a seat, an oversized artist's palette rests askew.

The New York Times

I think we're looking at a significant period of absence," said manager Steve Lomas.

BBC

Financial integration has no significant effect.The absence of a clear conclusion suggests two possibilities.

The Economist

An important finding of the study is the absence of a significant differential effect of the two training programs on functional capacity.

BMC Psychiatry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a significant absence of", ensure the context clearly establishes what is missing and why its absence matters. Be specific rather than vague to maximize impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a significant absence of" when the missing element is trivial or unimportant. Overusing this phrase can weaken its impact when describing truly critical deficiencies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant absence of" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object within a sentence. It denotes a notable deficiency or lack, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a significant absence of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to denote a notable lack or deficiency. While relatively rare in occurrence, it appears primarily in scientific and news contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples demonstrating its use in highlighting important shortcomings. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity and specificity to emphasize the importance of the missing element.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a noticeable lack of

Emphasizes that the absence is easily observed.

a considerable deficiency in

Highlights a significant shortage or inadequacy.

a marked absence of

Indicates the absence is clearly apparent and distinct.

a striking lack of

Suggests the absence is particularly noteworthy and impactful.

a distinct shortage of

Highlights a clear and definite scarcity.

a palpable void of

Emphasizes the tangible or easily felt nature of the absence.

a serious deficit in

Indicates a critical lack that has negative consequences.

an acute scarcity of

Highlights a severe and pressing lack of something.

a glaring omission of

Focuses on the act of leaving something out, rather than just its absence.

a critical insufficiency of

Emphasizes that there is not enough of something which is essential.

FAQs

How can I use "a significant absence of" in a sentence?

Use "a significant absence of" to point out a notable lack or deficiency. For instance, "The investigation revealed "a significant absence of" safety protocols at the construction site".

What are some alternatives to "a significant absence of"?

You can use alternatives like "a noticeable lack of", "a considerable deficiency in", or "a marked absence of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "significant absence of" or "significant lack of"?

Both "significant absence of" and "significant lack of" are acceptable, but "absence" often implies a complete lack, while "lack" can suggest a partial deficiency. Choose the one that best fits the situation.

How does the phrase "a significant absence of" differ from "absence of significant"?

"A significant absence of" emphasizes the importance of what's missing, while "absence of significant" focuses on the lack of something important, changing the emphasis slightly. The first usage is more common.