a substantial outlay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantial outlay" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a significant amount of money or resources that are spent or invested in a particular project or endeavor. Example: "The company made a substantial outlay on new technology to improve its production efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

It involves a substantial outlay for the chain, Britain's largest, because it has 3,300 stores.

The Guardian

For one thing, many experiences demand a substantial outlay on commodities: horses, hounds and jodhpurs, for example.

The Economist

But, in a short time, the mortgage was granted, the house was bought, and we moved — a hugely disruptive event in a family that experienced few, almost no, events that involved a substantial outlay of money.

The New Yorker

Another break that requires a substantial outlay (and quick action on your part) is the newly expanded and extended homebuyer credit.

Forbes

Since the Reagan years, there has been almost no new social policy that required a substantial outlay of money.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Although it is still a substantial monetary outlay, the charges can cancel out childcare costs and it is hoped the schools could provide an option for more children from families experiencing problems at home.

Independent

Despite substantial outlay on players following the summer takeover by the Italian energy magnate Francesco Becchetti, the team have struggled.

The Guardian - Sport

Guitar Hero Live has its 24/7 streaming service, Guitar Hero TV, on its side to keep the content fresh, so whatever Harmonix comes out with next month to expand its base experience, it needs to be enough to make the substantial outlay on this new-gen Rock Band immediately worthwhile.

Vice

But at nearly $250,000 per apartment, Equity Residential's deal in Del Mar is a significant outlay.

Forbes

"Responding to these changes will require substantial outlays on Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure, a more highly-skilled workforce and revamped shops and warehouses, against a backdrop in which shop prices are at record lows, margins are thin and costs - including business rates - keep rising".

BBC

Park Slope, a busy neighborhood of 60,000 residents, has almost always demanded sacrifices of its brownstone-seekers, whether they come in years of repairs and renovations, or in the substantial outlays of cash now required to scoop up a restored limestone or brownstone.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a substantial outlay", ensure the context clearly indicates what the money or resources are being spent on. Be specific to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantial outlay" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler terms like "expensive" or "costly" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantial outlay" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It describes a significant financial expenditure or investment, highlighting the magnitude of the cost.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantial outlay" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant expenditure or investment. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for formal contexts such as news, business, and academic writing. While not an extremely common phrase, it effectively communicates the magnitude of a financial commitment. Related phrases include ""a significant investment"" and ""a considerable expense"". When using this phrase, be sure the context clearly indicates what the money is being spent on, and avoid using it in overly casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant investment

Focuses on the investment aspect, implying a potential return.

a considerable expense

Highlights the cost aspect, suggesting a notable expenditure.

a large expenditure

Emphasizes the size of the spending.

a hefty investment

Uses "hefty" to denote a significant and possibly burdensome investment.

a significant financial commitment

Highlights the financial commitment involved.

a major capital expenditure

Specifically refers to capital expenditure, often used in business contexts.

a sizable financial contribution

Emphasizes the contribution aspect, often used in charitable or funding contexts.

a costly undertaking

Focuses on the overall cost associated with a project or venture.

a worthwhile expenditure

Implies that the outlay is justified and beneficial.

a notable disbursement

Highlights the act of disbursing or paying out funds.

FAQs

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

You can use "a substantial outlay" to describe a significant expenditure or investment, as in "The company required "a substantial outlay" to modernize its facilities".

What are some alternatives to "a substantial outlay"?

Alternatives include "a significant investment", "a considerable expense", or "a large expenditure" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

Yes, "a substantial outlay" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in business, finance, and academic contexts where precise language is valued.

What is the difference between "a substantial outlay" and "a minor expense"?

"A substantial outlay" refers to a significant amount of money spent, while "a minor expense" indicates a small or insignificant cost. The key difference lies in the magnitude of the expenditure.