a substantial distance

USAGE SUMMARY

'a substantial distance' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to refer to any measurable amount, either physical or metaphorical. For example, "My house is a substantial distance away from the nearest shop."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

"That's a substantial distance from the Baltimore-Washington area," Angelos said.

The New York Times - Sports

Offshore structures are often founded on long, slender piles that extend for a substantial distance above the ground surface.

Ocean Engineering

So, many generals prefer to keep a substantial distance from that line — to keep the prospect of a constitutional crisis from even remotely arising.

The New York Times

In Sunday's shooting, the police said, a shell casing was found a substantial distance from where the victim was shot, suggesting that he was not an intended target.

The New York Times

The report, in fact, puts a substantial distance between the administration and companies that produce or, like automakers, depend on fossil fuels.

The New York Times

Unlike Citi Field and the National Tennis Center, a soccer stadium in the middle of the park would sit a substantial distance from subways and trains.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

When I finally got it semi-right, I was flailing too much to cover any substantial distance.

The New York Times

Marvin Williams and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist each had 19 points for Charlotte 23-255), whicreatedted substantial distance with a 37-point second quarter.

Los Angeles Times

A substantial genetic distance existed only between the OB group and the two other groups.

Genetics, Selection, Evolution

In the phylogenetic analysis, despite a substantial evolutionary distance to PUUV strains from other parts of Europe, the virus sequences unambiguously grouped within the PUUV species.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Note that, because human and mouse are at a substantial evolutionary distance from SC, CE and DM, we did not perform a comparison between them and the other three species.

Bioinformatics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a substantial distance", ensure the context clarifies whether you're referring to a physical or metaphorical separation. Providing specific units (e.g., miles, years) can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial distance" when a precise measurement is available and relevant. Using vague language when specificity is possible undermines the credibility of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial distance" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs by specifying the extent of movement or separation. It describes the degree to which something is far away. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

28%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantial distance" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase for indicating a significant separation, whether physically or metaphorically. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as an adverbial phrase, primarily to convey the degree of remoteness. While appearing in diverse contexts like Science, News & Media, and Wiki, its register remains neutral. To ensure clarity, it's crucial to specify the type of distance and avoid vagueness when precision is possible. Alternatives such as "a considerable way" or "a fair distance" offer slight variations in emphasis. When choosing between these alternatives, consider the specific context and the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fair distance

Indicates a reasonable or moderate separation.

a considerable way

Focuses on the length of the separation.

a significant length

Highlights the extent or duration of the separation.

a significant separation

Emphasizes the act of distancing or differentiating.

a noteworthy interval

Emphasizes the importance or remarkableness of the separation.

a sizable gap

Focuses on empty space, physically or metaphorically.

a far remove

An older, more formal way of expressing a long distance.

a good stretch

Implies a continuous length or area.

quite a space

Highlights the amount of area separating two points.

a long haul

Emphasizes the effort required to traverse the distance.

FAQs

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

Use "a substantial distance" to indicate a considerable separation between two points or objects. For instance, "The new office is located a substantial distance from the main factory."

What are some alternatives to "a substantial distance"?

You can use alternatives like "a considerable way", "a significant length", or "a fair distance" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "a substantial distance" or "a long distance"?

"A substantial distance" and "a long distance" are similar, but "a substantial distance" implies a greater degree of separation or significance than "a long distance". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Can "a substantial distance" be used metaphorically?

Yes, "a substantial distance" can be used metaphorically to describe a significant difference or gap between ideas, opinions, or achievements. For example, "There is a substantial distance between their stated goals and their actual performance."