a solid block of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a solid block of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a substantial, uniform piece of material or substance, often in a physical or metaphorical context. Example: "The architect designed the building with a solid block of concrete as its foundation to ensure stability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I've got enough time for a solid block of training".

The Guardian - Sport

A more durable type of level has a vial machined from a solid block of acrylic.

The New York Times

THE berg was not, as it appeared, a solid block of ice.

The New York Times

Harried parents head to the gym with a purpose: to get in a solid block of cardio, then get out.

The New York Times

But weighed against a solid block of Mr. Hancock's music, the new material couldn't help seeming somewhat diminished.

The New York Times - Arts

It's very big, and it looks as if it has been made from a solid block of steel.

The Economist

Then there is the fact that Mr. Chávez commands a solid block of popular support among the country's 12 million registered voters.

The New York Times

BITS & PIECES, it says, each word housed in a solid block of black on white, PUT TOGETHER/ TO PRESENT/A SEMBLANCE/ OF THE WHOLE.

The New York Times - Arts

In a sharp departure from the classic crystal column, Mr. Brady designed a sleek modern table lamp with a solid block of lead crystal.

The New York Times

As early as June 19 1968, she made a speech on Solidarity Day calling for a "solid block of women power" to fight racism, poverty and war.

The Guardian

It is a solid block of doughnut, and as one unnamed customer said while eating it, "it's a morning's meal unto itself".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, use "a solid block of" to emphasize the material's density and lack of internal voids.

Common error

Avoid using "a solid block of" when referring to abstract ideas or emotions. Instead, use phrases like "a strong sense of" or "a firm belief in" to better convey the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a solid block of" typically functions as a noun phrase modifier, describing the characteristics of the noun that follows. As Ludwig AI states, it describes a substantial, uniform piece of material or substance, both physically and metaphorically. This is supported by examples in Ludwig, ranging from describing physical objects to blocks of time or support.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

21%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a solid block of" is a versatile phrase used to describe the substantial and uniform nature of physical materials or abstract concepts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It's important to consider the context and choose appropriate alternatives when a different nuance is needed, such as ""a substantial chunk of"" or ""a continuous stretch of"". While generally neutral in register, mindful application ensures effective communication across various settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a substantial chunk of

Replaces 'block' with 'chunk', implying a more informal and less precise quantity.

a continuous stretch of

Focuses on uninterrupted duration rather than physical solidity.

a sizable segment of

Replaces 'block' with 'segment', suggesting a part of a whole.

a unified mass of

Emphasizes the cohesiveness of the material, rather than its shape.

a large portion of

Replaces 'block' with 'portion', suggesting a division of something.

a firm slab of

Substitutes 'block' with 'slab', emphasizing the flatness and rigidity.

an unbroken series of

Highlights the sequential and uninterrupted nature.

a considerable period of

Shifts focus to time rather than physical matter.

a dedicated phase of

Suggests a specific and concentrated period.

an uninterrupted course of

Emphasizes the continuous and consistent nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "a solid block of" to describe physical objects (e.g., "a solid block of ice") or abstract concepts like time (e.g., "a solid block of training").

What can I say instead of "a solid block of"?

Alternatives include "a substantial chunk of", "a continuous stretch of", or "a unified mass of", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "a solid block of" to describe abstract concepts?

Yes, "a solid block of" can be used for abstract concepts like time, as in "a solid block of time". However, ensure it fits the context and conveys the intended meaning effectively.

What is the difference between "a solid block of" and "a chunk of"?

"A solid block of" suggests a more uniform and dense mass, while "a chunk of" ("a substantial chunk of") implies a less defined and potentially irregular piece.