a solid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a solid" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is firm, stable, or reliable, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "We need to come up with a solid plan before moving forward with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Just a solid citizen.

The New Yorker

Overall, a solid taco.

The New Yorker

Had a solid game.

Independent

A solid ghost.

The New Yorker

A solid floor ex.

The New York Times

"I'm a solid guy.

The New Yorker

"He's a solid player.

The New York Times - Sports

A solid sentiment.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's a solid, solid movie".

Independent

MARV ALBERT: A solid execution!

The New Yorker

What, then, is a solid?

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a solid" to describe someone's character or performance, consider the specific attribute you want to emphasize, such as reliability, strength, or competence. This will help you choose the most fitting synonym if needed.

Common error

While versatile, "a solid" can sound informal in certain contexts. In academic or formal writing, consider using more precise and sophisticated synonyms like "a robust analysis" or "a substantial contribution" for greater impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a solid" primarily functions as a pre-modifying adjective, typically preceding a noun. It serves to qualify the noun, indicating a quality of reliability, stability, or competence. Ludwig AI reports that "a solid" is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & media

45%

Wiki

20%

Formal & business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a solid" is a versatile and commonly used phrase that functions as a pre-modifying adjective, denoting reliability, stability, or competence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, particularly in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to consider more formal alternatives in academic or professional writing. Understanding its nuances and potential substitutions can enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reliable

Emphasizes dependability and trustworthiness, similar to "a solid" in conveying stability.

a sturdy

Focuses on the physical strength and resilience, comparable to "a solid" when referring to robust qualities.

a firm

Highlights the steadfast nature, aligning with "a solid" in terms of unwavering quality.

a robust

Indicates health and strength, akin to "a solid" when describing something capable and resilient.

a sound

Suggests validity and reasonableness, similar to "a solid" in expressing well-founded judgment.

a dependable

Stresses the quality of being trustworthy, mirroring "a solid" in the context of reliability.

a strong

Conveys power and resilience, analogous to "a solid" when characterizing firmness.

a substantial

Implies considerable size or importance, relating to "a solid" in terms of significant impact.

a healthy

Focuses on well-being and vigor, akin to "a solid" when highlighting positive attributes.

a steady

Underscores stability and consistency, relating to "a solid" in terms of unwavering performance.

FAQs

How can I use "a solid" in a sentence?

You can use "a solid" to describe something reliable, sturdy, or well-founded. For example, "He's "a solid player"" or "They have "a solid plan"".

What phrases can replace "a solid"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a reliable", "a dependable", or "a sturdy".

Is it better to say "a solid plan" or "a strong plan"?

Both ""a solid plan"" and "a strong plan" are acceptable, but they have slightly different connotations. "Solid" implies well-reasoned and reliable, while "strong" suggests resilience and effectiveness. Choose the one that best fits the context.

How formal is the expression "a solid"?

The expression "a solid" is generally considered neutral to slightly informal. While widely understood and accepted, it might be more appropriate to use more formal synonyms like "a substantial" or "a robust" in academic or professional writing.