a significant date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant date" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a date that holds importance or meaning in a particular context, such as historical events, anniversaries, or personal milestones. Example: "The signing of the Declaration of Independence is a significant date in American history."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

But a significant date was imminent.

The New York Times

Obama is speaking on a significant date.

The New York Times

It felt like a significant date, but I failed to conjure anything specific.

The New Yorker

The year 1215 is not only a significant date in British history, but in the history of the world.

The Guardian - Opinion

It keeps track of any important numbers, from your social followers or exchange rates to your steps or a countdown to a significant date.

The Guardian - Tech

Name a significant date in American politics since the early 1960s and she will either know the characters involved or have been involved in some way herself.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

When it comes to any significant date like this, you think back.

Vice

From Sanchez's perspective, there is a more significant date coming up: his annual Jets West passing camp in California, which has yet to be scheduled.

The New York Times - Sports

It was 3 November 1986 – a doubly significant date, since that's also Adam Ant's birthday, and he was responsible for turning me into a music obsessive in the first place.

The Guardian - Music

Sunday, 22 July 2012, could be a very significant date for Yorkshire's bid and British cycling.

BBC

In fact and not to be rude but in the history of North American freedom, June 19 is a more significant date than the Fourth of July.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a significant date", consider whether "important", "notable", or "historic" might be more precise, depending on the specific reason for the date's importance.

Common error

Avoid labeling every date as "a significant date"; reserve it for those truly impactful or memorable. Overuse dilutes its meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant date" functions as a noun phrase, specifically as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a significant date" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to an important day. Ludwig AI's analysis shows that it is frequently used in news and media, as well as in scientific contexts. While it is generally neutral in tone, users should consider whether more precise alternatives like "important", "notable", or "historic" might be more appropriate depending on the specific context. Avoiding overuse is also key to maintaining its impact. This phrase serves to emphasize the noteworthiness of a particular date, often associated with historical events or personal milestones.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an important date

This alternative is a more general way to refer to a date of consequence, lacking the subtle implication of lasting impact present in the original phrase.

a notable date

This suggests the date is worthy of attention or remembrance, emphasizing the fact that it stands out from other dates.

a memorable date

Focuses on the date being easily remembered, often due to its emotional or personal importance.

a key date

Highlights the date's importance as a crucial point in a sequence of events or a project timeline.

a landmark date

Implies the date marks a turning point or a major achievement, akin to a physical landmark.

a pivotal date

This suggests the date is a turning point with significant consequences.

a crucial date

Emphasizes the essential nature of the date for a particular outcome or process.

a historic date

This alternative denotes the date as being important in the context of history, carrying long-term significance.

a red-letter day

This is an idiomatic expression referring to a day of happiness or special significance.

an auspicious date

This implies the date is favorable or signals a positive beginning or event.

FAQs

What does "a significant date" mean?

The phrase "a significant date" refers to a particular day that holds special importance or meaning, often due to an event that occurred on that day or a milestone it represents.

What can I say instead of "a significant date"?

You can use alternatives like "an important date", "a notable date", or "a historic date" depending on the context.

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

You can use "a significant date" to highlight the importance of a specific day. For example, "July 4th is a significant date in American history."

Is "a significant date" formal or informal?

"A significant date" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "a pivotal date" might be preferred in academic or professional settings.