a substantial blow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial blow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant impact or setback, often in a metaphorical sense, such as in discussions about challenges or losses. Example: "The company faced a substantial blow to its reputation after the scandal was revealed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

The dissenting judge, Pierre N. Leval, called the decision "a substantial blow to international law".

The New York Times

The huge losses on Wall Street constitute a substantial blow to the economy at large.

The New York Times

Either option would be a substantial blow to America's AfPak mission.

The Guardian - Opinion

The $539,000 transfer was a substantial blow to the center's roughly $12.5 million annual operating budget.

The New York Times

Analysts said Lockheed's losing the bulk of the rocket contracts in 1998 was a substantial blow to its space program.

The New York Times

"My judgment is it's going to be a substantial blow" to chances for health care reform, Mr. Dingell said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

The announcement followed the N.B.A.'s decision in July to move its 2017 All-Star Game out of Charlotte but was seen as a particularly substantial blow to officials in North Carolina, where college basketball is central to the state's culture and pride.

The New York Times - Sports

Many farmers in ENY also felt a substantial economic blow, but only about half categorized the impacts as "moderate" to "severe", and the other half referred to it as "minor" or a "nuisance" (Fig. 3).

Cornell University

As the new millennium began, it dealt a substantial psychological blow to internet culture worldwide.

TechCrunch

Life insurance provides security in areas so that should something happen to you, your family is shielded from a substantial financial blow to their daily lives.

Forbes

The Pyramid Lake War in the spring and summer of 1860 was another substantial blow to the company.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a substantial blow" when you want to emphasize a significant negative impact, setback, or loss, particularly in formal or journalistic contexts. Be mindful of the emotional weight the phrase carries, as it suggests a considerable degree of harm or difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial blow" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly dramatic or formal. Opt for simpler and more direct language when discussing minor setbacks or inconveniences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial blow" functions primarily as a noun phrase that acts as a subject complement or object. It signifies a significant negative impact or setback. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing challenges faced by various entities, ranging from businesses to political movements.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantial blow" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant negative impact or setback. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct and suitable for formal writing, news reports, and analytical pieces. While interchangeable with phrases like ""a significant setback"" or ""a major setback"", be mindful of its somewhat dramatic tone and avoid overusing it in casual settings. The primary function is to convey the severity of an event, emphasizing negative consequences. The frequency is classified as uncommon, and it most often appears in News & Media. Be aware that the word combination's contexts can change the usage, like "substantial blowing" related to science.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant setback

Replaces "blow" with "setback", focusing on the hindrance or delay caused.

a major setback

Similar to 'a significant setback', but implies an even larger negative impact.

a serious hit

Uses "hit" instead of "blow", implying a forceful negative impact.

a heavy impact

Focuses on the force of the impact rather than the result.

a damaging effect

Emphasizes the negative consequences or harm caused.

a crippling setback

Suggests the setback is severe enough to cause significant impairment.

a devastating impact

Emphasizes the destructive and overwhelming nature of the impact.

a considerable impediment

Focuses on the obstacle created by the negative event.

a grave disadvantage

Highlights the resulting unfavorable position or condition.

a notable adversity

Emphasizes the hardship and difficulty resulting from the event.

FAQs

How can I use "a substantial blow" in a sentence?

You can use "a substantial blow" to describe something that has caused a significant negative impact. For example, "The company's failure to secure the contract was "a substantial blow" to its expansion plans."

What are some alternatives to "a substantial blow"?

Some alternatives include "a significant setback", "a major setback", or "a serious hit". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a substantial blow" in all types of writing?

While grammatically correct, "a substantial blow" is more suitable for formal writing, news reports, or analytical pieces. In casual conversation, it might sound overly dramatic. Consider simpler alternatives in informal settings.

What makes "a substantial blow" different from "a minor setback"?

"A substantial blow" implies a much larger and more damaging impact than "a minor setback". The former suggests a significant loss or obstacle, while the latter indicates a temporary and easily overcome difficulty.