a substantial buffer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial buffer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a significant amount of extra time, resources, or space that is set aside to accommodate potential issues or delays. Example: "To ensure the project stays on track, we have allocated a substantial buffer in our timeline for unforeseen challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

For the stomach and duodenum, the preepithelial defense is well developed, creating a substantial buffer zone between luminal content and the epithelial surface.

Nature

Even after adding $256 billion in spending increases over 10 years for the military, education, agriculture and other programs, his advisers say there would still be a substantial buffer left.

The New York Times

In addition to the provision of appropriate mental health care, environmental interventions that target modifiable aspects of the prison regime could provide a substantial buffer for the onset and persistence of suicidal ideation in this at-risk population.

International Journal of Law and Psychiatry

While ACS's 28 billion euros, or $34.4 billion, in sales and a diversified portfolio of global businesses make for a substantial buffer, problems in one of its crucial markets — the United States, and New York in particular — may ignite concerns about the capacity of the company's international operations to keep compensating for persistent problems in its home market.

The New York Times

They also providing a substantial buffer to changes in stream-water temperature often associated with clear-cut harvesting.

New Zealand Journal of Forestry Science

The strategy enhances SocialText's positioning as a loosely coupled platform significantly more malleable and distributed than standalone products, with a substantial buffer from larger players who don't have the incentive to move aggressively or as quickly as a small company can.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

This is a substantial extra buffer.

The Guardian - Business

Most forecasters agree that a substantial global buffer now exists, but that it could be stretched in the future.

The New York Times

On cameras with a substantial internal buffer (most medium or high-end models) you won't notice much improvement in speed between normal and high speed cards unless you do action photography.

WikiHow

This includes a substantial 45-acre buffer next to the Hudson Highlands State Park.

The New York Times

Most likely he will also endow it with a substantial cash pile to act as buffer against the uncertainties of the online future, and maybe even as a kitty for further acquisitions.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a substantial buffer" in project management, quantify the buffer with specific timeframes or resource amounts to clearly define its extent. For example, 'We've included a substantial buffer of two weeks in the project timeline to account for unforeseen delays'.

Common error

Avoid creating an excessively large "substantial buffer" that leads to project stagnation or inefficient resource allocation. Ensure the buffer is proportional to the project's needs and potential risks, not an arbitrary overestimation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial buffer" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an object or complement in a sentence. It describes something that provides protection or extra resources. Ludwig examples show it used in various contexts, such as finances, environmental protection, and personal well-being. It can also refer to physical space, as in the example about the Hudson Highlands State Park. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a substantial buffer" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant amount of extra resources, space, or time allocated to mitigate potential risks or provide security. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It appears most frequently in news and media, scientific, and formal business contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral to professional in tone, it implies preparedness and the ability to handle unexpected issues. When incorporating this phrase into your writing, ensure that the buffer is appropriately sized and clearly defined to avoid both overestimation and underestimation, and that there is "a significant cushion".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant cushion

Emphasizes the protective aspect, suggesting a comfortable margin against adversity.

a considerable reserve

Highlights the availability of resources held back for future use or unexpected needs.

a sizable safeguard

Focuses on the protective measure in place to prevent harm or loss.

an ample margin

Suggests a generous allowance or leeway to accommodate errors or variations.

a generous allowance

Similar to 'ample margin', but highlights the proactive allocation of extra resources.

a comfortable safety net

Illustrates a reliable system or resource designed to prevent severe consequences from risks or failures.

a robust defense

Implies strength and resilience in protecting against potential threats or attacks.

a considerable surplus

Indicates an excess of resources, providing a buffer against shortages or unexpected demands.

a significant leeway

Highlights the flexibility and freedom to deviate from strict rules or guidelines without negative consequences.

a strong bulwark

Conveys a sense of robust protection and resilience, often against external pressures or threats.

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantial buffer" to describe a significant amount of extra time, resources, or space set aside for unexpected issues. For example: "The company maintains "a substantial reserve" to cover potential losses during economic downturns."

What are some alternatives to "a substantial buffer"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a significant cushion", "a considerable reserve", or "an ample margin".

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "a substantial buffer"?

This phrase is appropriate in contexts where you need to indicate a significant safety margin, such as project management, financial planning, or risk assessment. For example, "We need "a robust defense" against potential cyberattacks."

What's the difference between "a substantial buffer" and "a small buffer"?

"A substantial buffer" implies a significant amount of extra resources or time, while "a small buffer" suggests only a minimal amount. The choice depends on the level of risk and the need for security in the situation. You can use "an ample margin" when you need to handle unexpected errors.