a significant minority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant minority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a notable or considerable portion of a group that holds a particular opinion or characteristic, often in discussions about demographics or social issues. Example: "In the recent survey, a significant minority of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the current policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"We're talking about a significant minority.

Independent

A significant minority, however, favor the "ossia".

The New Yorker

A significant minority were almost limp with grease.

The Guardian - Travel

There was a significant minority in the House.

The Guardian

But a significant minority of blacks were unhappy.

The Washington Post

A significant minority, it adds, are seriously ill.

The Guardian

Most Indians are Hindu, though a significant minority are Muslim.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, a significant minority of Britons have not heard of them either (25%and36%6% respectively).

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

RESULTS A significant minority (33%) of patients were predicted to have reduced ITPase activity.

Duke University

Q&A platform Answers.com is announcing a 'significant' minority investment from private equity firm TA Associates.

TechCrunch

But a significant minority, equally moved by the crash, have gone in the opposite direction.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a significant minority", ensure that the context clearly establishes the total group being referenced. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a significant minority" when the portion is actually quite small or inconsequential. This can mislead the reader and undermine the credibility of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant minority" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific subgroup within a larger population that, while not the majority, is large enough to warrant attention. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

27%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a significant minority" correctly identifies a noteworthy subset within a larger group. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical soundness and widespread usage across diverse contexts. As seen in the examples, its key function is to highlight the presence and relevance of this subgroup. While alternatives like "a considerable fraction" or "a substantial segment" exist, maintaining clarity regarding the total group and avoiding overstatement are crucial for effective communication. Predominantly found in news, encyclopedic, and scientific sources, this phrase proves invaluable for objective analysis and decision-making.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a considerable fraction

Replaces "minority" with "fraction", focusing on the proportional aspect.

a substantial segment

Uses "segment" instead of "minority", emphasizing the portion of the whole.

a notable proportion

Substitutes "minority" with "proportion", highlighting the ratio within the group.

a meaningful number

Replaces "significant" and "minority" with more general terms, indicating a quantity of consequence.

a relevant subset

Uses "subset" to specify a part of a larger group that is pertinent to the context.

an appreciable quantity

Emphasizes that the amount is large enough to be noticed or considered important.

a respectable contingent

Implies that the group is worthy of respect or consideration.

a non-negligible portion

Highlights that the portion is large enough to not be ignored.

a sizable group

Replaces "minority" with the more generic "group" while retaining the idea of a notable size.

an important faction

Focuses on the group as a distinct and influential element.

FAQs

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

Use "a significant minority" to indicate that a notable portion of a group shares a particular characteristic or opinion. For example, "A significant minority of students expressed concerns about the new curriculum."

What are some alternatives to "a significant minority"?

You can use alternatives like "a considerable fraction", "a substantial segment", or "a notable proportion" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to use "a significant minority" or "a significant majority"?

The choice depends on the proportion you are describing. Use "a significant minority" when referring to a smaller, but still important, portion. Use "a significant majority" when referring to the larger portion.

What does "significant" mean in the phrase "a significant minority"?

In this context, "significant" means that the minority is large enough to be noteworthy or important. It suggests that their views or characteristics should be taken into consideration.