a substantial gathering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial gathering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large or significant assembly of people for an event or occasion. Example: "The conference attracted a substantial gathering of industry leaders and experts from around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In this edition of his later poems, a substantial gathering of verses selected from six volumes published over the past 20 years, his poetry does not so much consist of themes to be explored as comic routines to be improvised.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A real gathering".

The New York Times

RH and HP had a substantial role in gathering data.

BMC Health Services Research

Such tasks are complex because the risk is high (significant financial commitment), and the large differences between brands or products require gathering a substantial amount of information prior to purchase.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The relationship between fractures and inflammatory cytokines in CKD-5D patieneedseeds to be confirmed in larger cohorts gathering a substantial higher number of bone events.

BMC Nephrology

This is consistent with the gathering evidence for a substantial increase in genome instability concomitant with crisis.

Plosone

"We're gathering real momentum in building a substantial US presence, which is central to our strategy of creating a strong international content business," said ITV chief executive Adam Crozier.

The Guardian

The potential for a substantial influenza outbreak needs to be considered before all mass gathering events, particularly when hosted during the months of peak influenza activity (27, 28 ).

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Ian Callum, design director for Jaguar, told the small gathering the design was one of his personal favorites, a substantial claim given the notable beauties created by Mr. Callum for Jaguar as well as Aston Martin, Jensen and others.

The New York Times

It also called for a substantial increase in agency staff and resources to handle these expanded data-gathering duties.

The New York Times

Despite a few other splinter gatherings across the city, the vigil in Victoria Park still had a substantial showing at 135,000 people, according to the organizers, the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a substantial gathering" when you want to emphasize that a group of people is not only present but also significant in size or importance. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While "a substantial gathering" is generally acceptable, avoid using it in very casual conversations. Opt for simpler phrases like "a lot of people" or "a big group" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial gathering" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a group of people that is significant in size or importance. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantial gathering" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a noteworthy assembly of people. Ludwig confirms its usability, although its frequency is relatively rare. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, scientific, and formal business contexts, indicating a neutral to slightly formal register. When aiming for a more casual tone, consider alternatives such as "a large assembly" or "a significant crowd". Although "a substantial gathering" is generally correct, avoid overuse in very informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a large assembly

Emphasizes the size of the group.

a significant crowd

Highlights the importance or impact of the number of people present.

a considerable turnout

Focuses on the number of people who attended an event.

a major congregation

Implies a more formal or organized gathering, often with a specific purpose.

a sizable group

Simply indicates that the group is large.

a numerous collection

Highlights the quantity of items or people brought together.

an extensive convocation

Suggests a formal meeting or assembly, typically for academic or professional purposes.

a massive huddle

Implies a close-knit group or team coming together.

a sweeping accumulation

Focuses on the gradual increase in numbers over time, leading to a large group.

an impressive array

Suggests a diverse and well-organized group.

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantial gathering" to describe a large and significant group of people coming together for an event or purpose. For example, "The conference attracted a substantial gathering of industry experts."

What's a good alternative to "a substantial gathering"?

Alternatives include "a large assembly", "a significant crowd", or "a considerable turnout". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "substantial gathering" formal or informal?

"Substantial gathering" leans towards a slightly more formal tone. In very casual settings, simpler phrases like "big group" or "lots of people" might be more appropriate.

What does "substantial" mean in "a substantial gathering"?

In this context, "substantial" means considerable in size, amount, or importance. It indicates that the gathering is not just any group of people, but a significant one.