a significant leap forward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant leap forward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a notable improvement or advancement in a particular area or field. Example: "The new technology represents a significant leap forward in renewable energy solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Circulation of the beams was a significant leap forward.

Independent

"Dictators is an excellent book that constitutes a significant leap forward in the study of authoritarian regimes and international security.

Cornell University

"Using a predictor like in the Greenway system, even if it's not perfect, will still give a significant leap forward compared with using nothing," he says.

MIT Technology Review

For years, scientists have been able to "print" types of human tissue using a 3D printer, but in a significant leap forward by US and Australian researchers they can now make that tissue survive on its own.

The Guardian

Although there is still much that can't be gleaned from the photos, and North Korea does have an inglorious record of exaggeration, analysts generally agree that the Hwasong-15 marks a significant leap forward in North Korea's missile development.

The Washington Post

But the fact that voters in multiple states signed off on gay marriage all at once on Tuesday suggests a significant leap forward, in addition to the incremental progress.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

I have no doubt this partnership will see us take the technical steps necessary to make a significant leap forwards".

The Guardian - Sport

Given that, he says, the study "makes a pretty significant leap forward".

Science Magazine

As more people become aware of the privacy threats marked by wearable devices, there could be a very significant leap forward in security and user privacy in tech companies.

TechCrunch

"I believe that the most significant leap forward in the industry's environmental performance in the coming years will be the commercial use of sustainable biofuels," Mr. Tyler said.

The New York Times

A quarter of a century later, questions are being asked about what, if anything, will be the next significant leap forward in psychiatric pharmacology, be it for depression or other diagnoses such as schizophrenia or anxiety.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a significant leap forward" to highlight advancements that are not only improvements but also represent a substantial change from the previous state. Consider the magnitude of the progress and its implications when choosing this phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "a significant leap forward" for trivial or incremental changes. This phrase implies a considerable advancement, and overusing it can dilute its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant leap forward" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a predicate nominative or an object of a preposition. It signifies a considerable advancement or progress, as evidenced by its use in the Ludwig examples across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

34%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a significant leap forward" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote substantial progress or advancement. Ludwig's AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability across diverse fields like science, technology, and social progress. The phrase is considered neutral in register and is frequently found in reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian. While alternatives like "a major breakthrough" and "a substantial advancement" exist, "a significant leap forward" effectively communicates a meaningful and impactful positive change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major breakthrough

Emphasizes a sudden and important discovery that removes a barrier.

a substantial advancement

Highlights the size and importance of the improvement.

a considerable improvement

Focuses on the degree to which something has gotten better.

a marked upgrade

Suggests a noticeable and distinct enhancement in quality or performance.

a quantum jump

Implies a dramatic and fundamental change or advancement.

a giant stride

Conveys the idea of a large and impactful step towards a goal.

a game changer

Indicates something that fundamentally alters the course of events.

a sea change

Refers to a fundamental shift in attitudes, opinions, or circumstances.

a paradigm shift

Describes a major change in a conceptual framework or way of thinking.

a turning point

Indicates a moment of significant change or decision.

FAQs

How can I use "a significant leap forward" in a sentence?

You can use "a significant leap forward" to describe substantial progress in a particular field or area. For example, "The new software represents a significant leap forward in data analysis."

What are some alternatives to "a significant leap forward"?

You can use alternatives like "a major breakthrough", "a substantial advancement", or "a considerable improvement" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "a significant leap forward" is suitable for formal writing. It is commonly used in academic, scientific, and professional contexts to describe substantial progress or advancements.

What's the difference between "a significant leap forward" and "a small step forward"?

"A significant leap forward" implies a large and impactful advancement, while "a small step forward" suggests a minor or incremental improvement. The choice depends on the magnitude of the progress being described.