a substantial knowledge of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial knowledge of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a significant level of understanding or expertise in a particular subject or field. Example: "To apply for this position, candidates must demonstrate a substantial knowledge of data analysis techniques."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

At that date no English poet had a substantial knowledge of either the Iliad or the Odyssey.

The Guardian - Books

Placed in charge of Firozpur, in the Punjab (1839), he acquired a substantial knowledge of Sikh politics.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Only CNS and muscle tissue groups are shown as these are the only tissues for which a substantial knowledge of condition-specific cis regulatory elements is currently available (see Supplementary Material for details).

Bioinformatics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

If we make room for such material inferences, we will be inclined to reject the view that individuals can reason well without any substantial knowledge of, say, the natural world and human affairs.

The New York Times

Every student has the ability to participate in civic life, not as a drone who has to be told how to think by self-serving politicians catering to special interests, but as a citizen who can responsibly cast a ballot based on a more substantial knowledge of the issues.

Huffington Post

Since a substantial knowledge regarding a large number of isomeric impurities of betamethasone has been accumulated in the literature as well as in our laboratory, a hydrolytic stress study (forced degradation) of the isolated unknown species was then designed and carried out accordingly in order to remove the valeryl group from the unknown species.

Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis

While there is a broad field of research that analyzes pharmacological treatments in the middle aged population, there is a substantial knowledge gap in the study of pharmacotherapy in elderly patients [ 3].

BMC Geriatrics

A substantial knowledge base exists on the use of this 40-year-old technology.

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

Among the qualifications, candidates must have a graduate or law degree, substantial knowledge of criminal justice, management experience and a commitment to civil rights.

The New York Times

Even though his vaunted "new ideas" aren't much to get excited about, and Hart, though intelligent, can't be said to have a great mind, he does have substantial knowledge of important subjects and a relatively good understanding of government — relative, that is, to most of the other candidates.

The New Yorker

To make such a judgement, mental health professionals need to have substantial knowledge of the effectiveness and harmfulness of the various coercive interventions.

BMC Psychiatry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a substantial knowledge of" when you want to emphasize both the breadth and depth of understanding in a particular area. It suggests more than just basic familiarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial knowledge of" if the individual only possesses a basic understanding. Misrepresenting expertise can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial knowledge of" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, indicating a significant level of understanding or expertise.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a substantial knowledge of" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to indicate a significant level of understanding or expertise in a particular subject. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, while relatively uncommon, it finds its niche in academic, news, and encyclopedic contexts. Related phrases include "a deep understanding of" and "extensive expertise in". Remember to use this phrase when you truly want to convey the depth and breadth of someone's knowledge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a considerable understanding of

Replaces "knowledge" with "understanding" and "substantial" with "considerable", softening the emphasis on the breadth of knowledge.

a deep understanding of

Replaces "substantial knowledge" with "deep understanding", focusing on the depth rather than the extent of knowledge.

extensive expertise in

Shifts the focus to expertise, implying practical skill and experience, and changes the preposition to "in".

a comprehensive grasp of

Emphasizes complete and thorough understanding, using "grasp" instead of "knowledge".

a thorough command of

Highlights mastery and control over the subject matter, using "command" to indicate proficiency.

a strong familiarity with

Suggests a well-developed but potentially less formal understanding, using "familiarity" to imply acquaintance and understanding.

proficient in

More concise, focusing on skill and competence in a specific area.

well-versed in

Indicates a comprehensive knowledge gained through study or experience.

a working knowledge of

Implies a practical understanding sufficient for performing tasks.

intimate knowledge of

Conveys a very detailed and personal understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "a substantial knowledge of" in a sentence?

You can use "a substantial knowledge of" to describe someone's expertise or understanding in a specific field. For example, "The candidate demonstrated a substantial knowledge of environmental regulations".

What's a good alternative to "a substantial knowledge of"?

Alternatives include "a deep understanding of", "extensive expertise in", or "a comprehensive grasp of depending on the context".

Is it better to say "substantial knowledge in" or "substantial knowledge of"?

The correct preposition is "of". Saying "substantial knowledge in" is grammatically incorrect. You should always use "a substantial knowledge of".

What level of expertise does "a substantial knowledge of" imply?

It implies a significant and well-developed understanding, more than just basic familiarity but perhaps less than mastery. It suggests a solid foundation of knowledge.