a substantial chunk of time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial chunk of time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a significant or considerable amount of time spent on an activity or task. Example: "Completing this project will require a substantial chunk of time, so we need to plan accordingly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Cathy Swerdlin from Atlanta spent a substantial chunk of time not only planting her sapling but landscaping it with the bounteous rocks in the area.

The New York Times

The reputable ones will be able to show that they're accredited by one of the two main umbrella organisations, and demonstrate that all courses include a substantial chunk of time where students practice teaching English to a real class, observed by experienced tutors.

Independent

You might want to set aside a substantial chunk of time.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

And you have to set aside a pretty substantial chunk of time.

Forbes

Mr Winn said this had "absorbed a substantial chunk of water at the critical time as the river was hitting its peak" last week.

BBC

Jaws opened across North America on 464 screens amid an unprecedented publicity blitz: $2.5m was spent on promotion, a substantial chunk of which went on TV advertising, still a novelty at that time.

The Guardian - Film

Pampered on the Pampas Vik visited his mother’s native Uruguay for the first time as an adult and was so deeply smitten with the landscape he bought a substantial chunk of it.

Forbes

At other times, these panels unlock new, stronger weapons, like a golden hammer that takes a substantial chunk of health off the demo's lightweight general enemies.

Vice

That suggests an election would see the obliteration of a substantial chunk of Labour MPs.

The Guardian - Opinion

They did represent a substantial chunk of the $5.5 million cost of the home, she acknowledged.

The New York Times

The bank was based in Iceland but a substantial chunk of its business came from Britain.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a substantial chunk of time" when you want to emphasize that a significant portion of time is dedicated to an activity or task. It suggests that the time commitment is noteworthy and should be taken into consideration.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial chunk of time" when a precise measurement of time is necessary. Instead, provide specific durations (e.g., "three hours", "two weeks") for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial chunk of time" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an adverbial modifier indicating the duration of an action or the time required for a task. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academic

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantial chunk of time" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a significant duration or portion of time. According to Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase, typically modifying verbs to express the time involved in an action. While not overly formal, it is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase is most effective when you want to emphasize that a noteworthy amount of time is needed or has been spent. Alternatives such as "a considerable amount of time" or "a significant period of time" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a considerable amount of time

Focuses on the amount of time being noteworthy, similar to "a substantial chunk of time".

a significant period of time

Emphasizes the period itself as important or meaningful.

a lengthy duration

Highlights the extended nature of the time.

a large portion of time

Focuses on the division of time, with a notable segment being used.

an extended period

Indicates a time frame that is longer than usual or expected.

a good amount of time

A more informal way to indicate that a worthwhile amount of time is needed or spent.

a notable span of time

Highlights that the time frame is worth paying attention to or remembering.

an appreciable time frame

Highlights that the time frame is possible to be perceived or noticed.

a considerable duration

Emphasizes the length of the time period being significant.

a significant time investment

Highlights the effort or resources put into using the time, often in a professional setting.

FAQs

How can I use "a substantial chunk of time" in a sentence?

You can use "a substantial chunk of time" to indicate that a significant amount of time is required or spent on something. For example: "Completing this report will take "a substantial chunk of time".".

What are some alternatives to "a substantial chunk of time"?

Alternatives include "a considerable amount of time", "a significant period of time", or "an extended period". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a substantial chunk of time" or "a significant amount of time"?

Both "a substantial chunk of time" and "a significant amount of time" are correct and often interchangeable. "A substantial chunk of time" might emphasize the portion or segment of time, while "a significant amount of time" focuses on the quantity. The difference is subtle and context-dependent.

When should I use "a substantial chunk of time" in formal writing?

While acceptable, "a substantial chunk of time" is generally more suitable for neutral or slightly informal contexts. In very formal writing, consider using alternatives such as "a considerable amount of time" or "a significant period of time" to maintain a more elevated tone.