a substantial figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a significant amount or an important person in a particular context, such as finance, statistics, or social settings. Example: "The charity event raised a substantial figure, exceeding our initial fundraising goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"It's a substantial figure," she said.

The Guardian

The firm reported almost 500 million video streams in its news and information category in September — still a substantial figure.

The New York Times

After appearing in some 60 stage productions, the actor - already a substantial figure at 16 stone and 6ft 3in - was offered a film contract by Hal Roach.

The Guardian

Powell's natural constituency was those white British people who were disenchanted by immigration, but, inevitably, he was also a substantial figure in the lives of immigrants.

The Guardian

While it can't be easy being the brother of a dead icon, Joaquin Phoenix is establishing himself as a substantial figure in his own right.

The Guardian - Film

The move to appoint such a substantial figure, coming in a week of multiple reports that have rocked the White House, was welcomed by many Republicans and Democrats.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Here, for example, is Bellow's Herzog on a lover: She was short but had a full, substantial figure, a good round seat, firm breasts (all these mattered to Herzog; he might think himself a moralist but the shape of a woman's breasts mattered greatly).

The New Yorker

As shown in the merged image in Figure 9A, a substantial number of TuJ1 positive cells in rat cortical neuronal cultures were co-stained with GFP antibody (as shown by arrows).

Plosone

As shown in Figure 4B, a substantial number of CA125/MUC16 knockdown cells migrated through the pores, whereas control cells did not migrate at all.

British Journal of Cancer

But as noted before, a substantial number of the 600-figure could be what the GOP staff labeled as concerns.

The Washington Post

There is an opportunity for Mr Sarkozy both to win and to become a more substantial figure.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a substantial figure" to describe a quantity or amount that is notably large or significant. This phrase is effective in contexts where precision is less important than conveying the general magnitude.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial figure" when a precise number is available and relevant. This phrase is best suited for situations where an approximation is sufficient.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial figure" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It qualifies a noun, indicating that the figure is of considerable size, amount, or importance. As seen in Ludwig's examples, this phrase helps to describe a quantity or an individual in a qualitative way.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a substantial figure" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a quantity or individual of significant size or importance. As per Ludwig's analysis, it finds frequent application in news and media, science, and business contexts, denoting its neutrality and broad applicability. When a precise number is not required, this phrase offers a succinct way to express magnitude. To enhance clarity, avoid using it when exact figures are available. Related phrases include "a notable figure" and "a significant amount". By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively employ "a substantial figure" to enrich their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a notable figure

Emphasizes prominence or importance, shifting from amount to recognition.

a significant amount

Focuses on quantity rather than the individual or entity.

a considerable quantity

Highlights the largeness of a number or amount.

a major player

Implies influence and importance in a specific field or activity.

a prominent individual

Stresses the person's high visibility and importance.

an important person

Highlights the significance of someone's role or position.

a sizeable portion

Refers to a large part or share of something.

a large sum

Specifically denotes a significant amount of money.

a respectable number

Implies that the quantity is worthy of esteem or regard.

a meaningful contribution

Focuses on the impact and value of the contribution.

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantial figure" to refer to a significant amount or an important person in a sentence. For example, "The charity raised "a substantial figure" during the campaign", or "He is "a substantial figure" in the industry".

What can I say instead of "a substantial figure"?

You can use alternatives like "a notable figure", "a significant amount", or "a considerable quantity" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a substantial figure" or provide the exact number?

It depends on the context. If precision is important, provide the exact number. If you want to emphasize the largeness of the amount without being exact, ""a substantial figure"" is appropriate.

When is it appropriate to use "a substantial figure"?

It is appropriate to use "a substantial figure" when you want to indicate that an amount, number, or person is significant or important, without specifying the exact value or details. It's suitable for general discussions or summaries where precise details are not crucial.