a significant sacrifice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant sacrifice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the importance or magnitude of a sacrifice made in various contexts, such as personal, financial, or social situations. Example: "He made a significant sacrifice by leaving his job to care for his ailing parent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Her stepfather and her 21-year-old sister, who agreed to share responsibility for the children, a significant sacrifice, were struggling to cope.

The New York Times

Alice Oswald was seen as a strong contender for the TS Eliot prize, so her withdrawal from the shortlist this week (followed by that of John Kinsella) was a significant sacrifice.

The Guardian - Books

No industry wants to let go of a loophole and no constituency acquiesces to a significant sacrifice without being assured first that other industries or constituencies are doing as much or more.

The New York Times

It will be a significant sacrifice they will be making," says Mr Clendenin.

BBC

However, lower operating temperature led to a significant sacrifice in energy conversion efficiency due to the resulting increase in ohmic and activation losses [1].

Nanoscale Research Letters

Simulation results also illustrate that the active NO/NO2 ratio control can enable the SCR system size reduction by a half without a significant sacrifice on the overall tailpipe emission control performance.

Journal of the Franklin Institute

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Panic isn't necessary, but the choice of earlier parenthood without significant sacrifice should be a better option.

The Guardian - Opinion

"But the bottom line is that they're looking in a way that does not involve a significant lifestyle sacrifice".

The New York Times - Style

The rest of the financing came from the savings of family members, which Mr. Morale de Almeida called "a significant personal sacrifice, but a controlled risk".

The New York Times

Mr. Snowden has certainly made a significant personal sacrifice, and there is so far no evidence that he was motivated by anything other than concern for his country.

The New York Times

"NBC ought to be commended for a gutsy and socially responsible change of policy," he said, adding: "It's refreshing to see a corporation make a significant economic sacrifice.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a significant sacrifice" when you want to emphasize the importance or magnitude of what has been given up or lost. It adds weight to the act of sacrificing.

Common error

While "a significant sacrifice" is a valid phrase, avoid using it too frequently in your writing. Vary your vocabulary with synonyms like "substantial sacrifice" or "considerable sacrifice" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant sacrifice" functions as a noun phrase, where "significant" modifies the noun "sacrifice". It describes a particular instance of giving up something valuable. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a significant sacrifice" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to underscore the importance of a sacrifice. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media, as well as in scientific literature. When writing, be mindful of overuse and consider alternatives such as "substantial concession" or "considerable forfeiture" to enrich your vocabulary. By understanding its function and communicative purpose, you can effectively convey the weight of sacrifices in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a substantial concession

Emphasizes the act of yielding or compromising on a particular point or demand.

a considerable forfeiture

Focuses on the loss or surrender of something of value.

a major compromise

Highlights the act of reaching an agreement by making mutual concessions.

a noteworthy renunciation

Stresses the formal rejection or abandonment of something.

a remarkable relinquishment

Implies the voluntary surrender of a right, claim, or possession.

an important trade-off

Focuses on the exchange of one thing for another, especially when both have value.

a critical loss

Emphasizes the detrimental effect of the sacrifice.

a meaningful concession

Highlights the importance and purpose of the concession.

a serious deprivation

Underscores the severity of the loss or hardship endured.

a painful surrender

Highlights the emotional aspect of giving something up.

FAQs

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

You can use "a significant sacrifice" to describe an action where someone gives up something valuable. For example, "She made "a significant sacrifice" by quitting her job to care for her family."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "a significant sacrifice"?

Alternatives include "substantial sacrifice", "considerable sacrifice", or "major sacrifice", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "significant sacrifice" or "major sacrifice"?

"Significant sacrifice" and "major sacrifice" are both correct, but "significant" often implies a deeper, more meaningful impact, while "major" simply denotes size or scale. The better choice depends on the specific context.

What does it mean when someone makes "a significant sacrifice"?

It means they are giving up something important or valuable to achieve a goal or help someone else. This could involve time, money, personal comfort, or other resources.