a substantial edge

USAGE SUMMARY

"a substantial edge" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means a significant advantage or benefit over something or someone. Example: The new technology gave our company a substantial edge over our competitors, boosting our sales and profits.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

While Democrats hold a substantial edge in voter registration in California, Mr. Davis had trouble winning their loyalty.

The New York Times

But when it comes time to bid on jobs, these employers have a substantial edge and are wrongly rewarded, Mr. Conroy contends.

The New York Times

While Mr. Clinton is clearly worried about the outcome in New York, this poll shows him with a substantial edge over Mr. Brown among Democrats nationwide.

The New York Times

He also enjoyed a substantial edge in campaign funds to spend on a surge of advertising and mailings in the closing weeks.

The Washington Post

Democrats also have a substantial edge in voter registration: of the state's 6m voters, 2.7m are Democrats, compared with 1.9m Republicans.

The Economist

The Republicans have a substantial edge in this category, too, outraising the Democrats by $275 million to $157 million so far this election cycle, according to federal election records.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Mr. Spitzer, from a wealthy real estate family, has a substantial financial edge.

The New York Times

Privately performed R&D continues to give a substantial innovative edge to the higher income countries where most of this R&D takes place.

Encyclopedia of Agriculture and Food Systems

The fund-raising campaign, which members called unusually aggressive, would seek to protect the Republicans' six-seat majority in the House and erode a substantial Democratic edge in contributions, the officials said.

The New York Times

James Redos, the chairman of the regular science department, believes that the equipment, particularly the computers, gives students in the magnet program a substantial competitive edge in national science contests.

The New York Times

Oregon State holds a substantial series edge, 171-119, in the 79-year rivalry, and the Beavers have been victorious over the Ducks in the last five meetings and 29 of the last 32.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a substantial edge", ensure the context clearly defines what or whom the edge is over. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial edge" when the advantage is minimal or insignificant. Overstating the edge can weaken your argument or appear exaggerated. Make sure the context justifies the use of 'substantial'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial edge" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "substantial" modifies the noun "edge". It describes a significant advantage or benefit. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantial edge" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that conveys a significant advantage. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage. It is most prevalent in news and media contexts, with secondary usage in science and formal business settings. When using the phrase, it's important to ensure that the context clearly supports the idea of a considerable advantage and avoid overstating the significance of the edge. Alternatives like "significant advantage" or "considerable lead" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant advantage

Replaces "edge" with a more general term for advantage, maintaining the same level of impact.

considerable lead

Emphasizes the aspect of being ahead or in front, suitable in competitive contexts.

marked advantage

Highlights that the advantage is clearly noticeable or distinct.

distinct upper hand

Suggests a clear position of control or dominance.

decisive advantage

Indicates that the advantage is likely to determine the outcome.

significant head start

Focuses on the advantage of beginning earlier or being ahead in initial stages.

noticeable superiority

Highlights a clear and evident state of being better than others.

clear dominance

Emphasizes the state of having control or power over others.

prominent advantage

Stresses the noteworthiness and visibility of the advantage.

sizeable advantage

Focuses on the magnitude or extent of the advantage.

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantial edge" to describe a significant advantage one entity has over another. For example, "The new technology gave our company "a substantial edge" over its competitors".

What are some alternatives to "a substantial edge"?

Alternatives include "significant advantage", "considerable lead", or "marked advantage", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a substantial edge" in formal writing?

Yes, "a substantial edge" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in business, news, and academic contexts. Its meaning is clear and widely understood in professional settings.

What's the difference between "a slight edge" and "a substantial edge"?

"A slight edge" indicates a small advantage, while "a substantial edge" signifies a significant and noticeable advantage. The choice depends on the magnitude of the advantage you're describing.