a substantive point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantive point" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to a relevant and meaningful argument or fact. For example, "The speaker raised a substantive point about the impacts of climate change on the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

There is a substantive point here.

The Guardian

But I do want to make a substantive point about that.

The New Yorker

But the review raised a substantive point that stands: there is far too little reliable prospective evidence about whether this frontline approach to flu works.

The Guardian - Opinion

Again, Oren is trying to make a substantive point in terms familiar to readers of AIPAC congressional briefings and press kits: that the reason a two-state solution has not come about is the fault of President Mahmoud Abbas and the Palestinians, not Netanyahu.

The New Yorker

Particularly where one merely involves Haitian victims, while the other involves a Muslim bad guy?Anyway, while some may think it fun to turn the deaths of tens of thousands of people abroad into a domestic political football, it's not really morally acceptable, so here's a substantive point.

The Economist

However, from a substantive point of view, the difference was rather small.

Large-scale Assessments in Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

The video Ms. Cutter released on Thursday, "Get the Facts on Karl Rove's B.S.," is a substantive, point-by-point rebuttal of Crossroads GPS's latest advertisement, which accuses the president of breaking a series of major campaign promises on the economy.

The New York Times

"I don't think there was any substantive point in there that wasn't in the public domain," says Reid. "This is an operational matter for the police, was the advice given".

The Guardian

But Obama also wants to make a more substantive point, showing that an emphasis on truthtelling during a campaign can in the long run be better politics.

The New Yorker

What campaign wouldn't want to straight up own a keen argument or a thoughtful, substantive point?

Huffington Post

"They take this very seriously and from a very substantive point of view".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a substantive point" to introduce an argument that adds significant weight to the discussion or debate.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is "a substantive point" without elaborating on its significance. Always provide enough context for the reader to understand why the point is important.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantive point" functions as a noun phrase, introducing a significant and relevant idea or argument within a discussion or text. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct. Examples show its use in diverse contexts from news to academic writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantive point" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce an important and relevant idea or argument. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in formal to neutral contexts, appearing frequently in News & Media and scientific writing. To enhance clarity, always ensure to elaborate on the significance of the point when using this phrase. Related phrases such as "a significant argument" or "a meaningful observation" can be considered as alternatives depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant argument

Emphasizes the importance and weight of the argument.

a meaningful observation

Highlights the insightful and relevant nature of the observation.

a key consideration

Focuses on the essential and critical aspect that needs to be considered.

a crucial element

Stresses that the element is vital and indispensable.

an essential factor

Underscores the importance and necessity of the factor.

a noteworthy aspect

Draws attention to the interesting and significant characteristic.

a vital issue

Highlights the critical and pressing nature of the matter.

a weighty matter

Emphasizes the serious and important nature of the subject.

a valid argument

Highlights the logical soundness and legitimacy of the claim.

a considerable factor

Emphasizes the importance and degree of a factor.

FAQs

How can I use "a substantive point" in a sentence?

You can use "a substantive point" to introduce a significant idea or argument. For example, "The researcher raised "a substantive point" about the limitations of the current methodology".

What are some alternatives to saying "a substantive point"?

Alternatives include "a significant argument", "a meaningful observation", or "a key consideration". Choose the alternative that best fits the context.

Is it better to say "substantive point" or "substantial point"?

"Substantive" refers to something essential and relevant, while "substantial" refers to something of considerable size or amount. "Substantive point" is generally more appropriate when referring to an important idea.

What makes a point "substantive"?

A point is considered "substantive" if it is meaningful, relevant, and adds significant weight to the discussion or argument. It goes beyond superficial details and addresses core issues.