a significant liking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant liking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong preference or fondness for something. Example: "She has developed a significant liking for classical music since attending the concert last month."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

These bonds pay out only if there has been a significant event like a hurricane.

The New York Times

What I learned was that for a significant purchase like a sofa, the smart shopper needs both.

The New York Times - Tech

"Ten years ago, 15 years ago, college funding was a significant investment, like buying a car.

The New York Times

But some respondents said that a significant event, like losing a job, had caused them to give up Web access.

The New York Times - Tech

I would want to believe that Wal-Mart would come talk to us about a significant change like that".

The New York Times

We detect a significant wave-like oscillation with periods covering a planetary oscillation in both Es layer parameters.

Advances in Space Research

Yes, but probably only when a niche is opened after a significant disturbance, like an antibiotic storm.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We really haven't had a significant change like the one we're describing now," Osili said.

The Washington Post

Violent children perhaps had lacked any positive influence from a significant adult, like a supportive teacher or relative.

Independent

Even though President Andrés Pastrana and rebel commanders agreed to return to the table, a significant step like a cease-fire remains months, perhaps years away.

The New York Times

What I didn't know as a child, though, was that the place she called Taleh, the sheikh's residence, was a significant maze-like fortress.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a significant liking", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being liked. For example, "She developed a significant liking for classical music after attending the concert."

Common error

While grammatically correct, "a significant liking" can sound somewhat informal or understated in certain formal contexts. Consider using stronger, more precise alternatives like "a strong preference" or "a deep appreciation" for greater impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant liking" functions as a noun phrase where "significant" is an adjective modifying the noun "liking". Ludwig AI confirms that it describes a strong preference or fondness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a significant liking" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a strong preference or fondness. However, Ludwig AI's analysis indicates that the phrase is rarely used in practice. While acceptable in various contexts, stronger or more formal alternatives like "a strong preference" or "a deep appreciation" may be more appropriate depending on the specific situation. The phrase's neutral register makes it versatile, but its low frequency suggests that other options might be more common and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong preference

Replaces 'liking' with 'preference', indicating a clear choice or favor for something.

a considerable fondness

Substitutes 'liking' with 'fondness' and 'significant' with 'considerable', suggesting a warm affection.

a marked inclination

Uses 'inclination' instead of 'liking', implying a tendency or leaning towards something.

a pronounced taste

Replaces 'liking' with 'taste', indicating a developed appreciation or preference.

a deep appreciation

Emphasizes the positive evaluation and enjoyment of something.

a noticeable predilection

Indicates a strong preference or bias towards something, using a more formal tone.

a keen interest

Suggests an active and enthusiastic engagement with something.

a substantial attraction

Highlights the appealing or captivating nature of something.

a growing attachment

Implies an emotional bond or connection that has developed over time.

an increasing favor

Indicates that something is becoming more liked or preferred over time.

FAQs

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

You can use "a significant liking" to express a strong preference or fondness. For example: "He developed "a significant liking" for hiking after his trip to the mountains."

What are some alternatives to "a significant liking"?

You can use alternatives like "a strong preference", "a considerable fondness", or "a deep appreciation depending on the context.

Is "a significant liking" formal or informal?

"A significant liking" leans towards being slightly informal. In formal contexts, consider stronger alternatives like "a marked inclination" or "a pronounced taste".

Is it correct to say "significant liking" without the article "a"?

While "significant liking" might be understood, it's grammatically more sound to include the article "a" before "significant liking", as it modifies a singular, countable noun.