a significant breakthrough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant breakthrough" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an important or notable advancement in a particular field or area of study. Example: "The researchers announced a significant breakthrough in cancer treatment that could change the lives of millions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a significant breakthrough.

The Economist

That would be a significant breakthrough.

The New York Times

In 2013 he made a significant breakthrough.

The Guardian

Within two years, he had made a significant breakthrough.

The Guardian

Nonetheless, Zostavax represents a significant breakthrough, several scientists said.

The New York Times - Health

Coomaraswamy believes this week's ICC verdict is a significant breakthrough.

The Guardian

It is, though, a significant breakthrough for the women's game in England.

The New York Times - Sports

"It is a significant breakthrough that could only have been made on Beijing's initiative.

The Guardian

The Bonn talks were not expected to make a significant breakthrough.

The Guardian

Mr. Obama described the agreement as a "significant breakthrough on the road to health care reform".

The New York Times - Health

The appointment is a significant breakthrough for women in the upper echelons of governance.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a significant breakthrough", provide context to highlight why the breakthrough is important and what impact it has on the field or situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a significant breakthrough" for minor improvements or incremental changes. Reserve it for developments that truly represent a major advancement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant breakthrough" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness. It highlights the importance of the achievement or discovery being discussed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

23%

Academia

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a significant breakthrough" is a noun phrase used to describe a major advancement or discovery. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and very common in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, it's crucial to provide context and avoid overstating the significance of minor improvements. Alternatives include "a major advancement", "a key development", and "a notable achievement", each offering slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major advancement

Emphasizes the size and impact of the advancement.

a key development

Highlights the importance and centrality of the development.

a notable achievement

Focuses on the successful completion of something significant.

a landmark discovery

Stresses the historical importance and impact of the discovery.

a game-changing innovation

Indicates the innovation fundamentally alters the existing situation.

a pivotal moment

Highlights a turning point or crucial event.

a substantial leap forward

Emphasizes the progress and advancement made.

an important milestone

Highlights a significant point in a process or journey.

a ground-breaking invention

Stresses the novelty and originality of the invention.

a transformative step

Highlights the potential for significant change.

FAQs

How can I use "a significant breakthrough" in a sentence?

Use "a significant breakthrough" to describe an important advancement or discovery. For example, "The new drug represents "a significant breakthrough" in the treatment of the disease".

What are some alternatives to "a significant breakthrough"?

You can use alternatives like "a major advancement", "a key development", or "a notable achievement" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a significant breakthrough" in formal writing?

Yes, "a significant breakthrough" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing scientific, technological, or medical advancements. However, ensure that the context warrants such a strong description.

What's the difference between "a significant breakthrough" and "a minor improvement"?

"A significant breakthrough" refers to a major advancement or discovery that has a substantial impact. In contrast, "a minor improvement" indicates a small, incremental change that does not fundamentally alter the situation.