a significant change

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant change" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing an important or notable alteration in a situation, process, or condition. Example: "The company implemented a significant change in its policy to improve employee satisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This marks a significant change.

The Economist

"It's a significant change.

The New York Times

This represents a significant change.

The New York Times

This was a significant change.

The New York Times

There has not been a significant change".

The Guardian - Film

But rearranging lines is a significant change.

The New York Times - Sports

You will notice a significant change.

Harvard University

So we saw a significant change.

Cornell University

The new strategy is a significant change in Pentagon doctrine.

The New York Times

The report highlights a significant change in student visa trends.

The Guardian

Lofton credited confidence with producing a significant change in Sabathia.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "a significant change" in academic writing, ensure to quantify the change with data or evidence to support its significance.

Common error

Avoid using "a significant change" when the alteration is minor or has little discernible impact. Ensure the change warrants the descriptor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant change" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig, it's used to denote alterations of considerable importance or impact, as evidenced by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a significant change" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize important alterations across various contexts. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and very common, appearing frequently in news, science, and academic sources. When writing, be sure the change is truly impactful before using this phrase and consider related alternatives like "a major shift" or "a substantial alteration" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a momentous change

This alternative implies a change of great importance and historical consequence.

a major shift

This alternative emphasizes a large-scale change in direction or approach.

a substantial alteration

This alternative highlights a considerable modification or adjustment.

a considerable change

This alternative indicates a change that is noteworthy and deserving of attention.

a marked difference

This alternative emphasizes a noticeable distinction after an event or period.

a radical transformation

This alternative suggests a complete and fundamental change.

a sea change

This alternative denotes a sweeping and profound change.

a notable adjustment

This alternative points to a specific and recognizable modification.

an important development

This alternative highlights the significance of the change as a progression.

a paradigm shift

This alternative denotes a fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.

FAQs

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

You can use "a significant change" to describe an important alteration or shift, as in "The new policy represents a significant change in the company's approach to employee benefits."

What are some alternatives to "a significant change"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a major shift", "a substantial alteration", or "a momentous change".

When is it appropriate to use "a significant change" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that an alteration or shift is important and noteworthy. Use it when the change has a clear impact or consequence.

What's the difference between "a significant change" and "a minor adjustment"?

"A significant change" indicates a substantial alteration with noticeable effects, whereas "a minor adjustment" refers to a small, often subtle, modification.