a sum for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sum for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific amount of money or a total that is intended for a particular purpose or recipient. Example: "The charity received a sum for their ongoing relief efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

How would one even begin to arrive at a sum for the reparation payments?

The New York Times

No racecourse management had ever before put up such a sum for a single event.

The New Yorker

Mr. Mintoo laughed at the charge, saying it was too paltry a sum for him to demand of anyone.

The New York Times

In September, the bank put aside a sum for a possible settlement based solely on Barclays' $450 million settlement.

The New York Times

Behind the scenes, cost is often a matter of drug companies scalping the NHS: Novartis was charging far too high a sum for the meningitis B vaccine.

The Guardian - Opinion

That is a sum for which Arne Glimcher, the founder and owner of Pace, could sell you a nice piece of art that wouldn't need pruning.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Casey is paid a salary of fifteen thousand euros a month (tax-free), a colossal sum for a Vatican employee.

The New Yorker

The subsidies average $1,500 a month, a considerable sum for a provincial newspaper.

The New York Times

Multiple ACT cocktails would run about $1.30 per treatment course--a large sum for poorer countries.

Science Magazine

That's not a trivial sum for a country with such a small population.

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm out $631, a substantial sum for a graduate student, and a computer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sum for", ensure the context clearly indicates what the sum is intended to cover. Providing specific details about the purpose enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a sum for" without specifying the recipient or intended use of the funds. Always clarify the purpose to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sum for" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or within a prepositional phrase. It typically designates a monetary amount allocated or intended for a specific purpose. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used in standard English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sum for" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to denote money that is allocated or intended for a specific purpose. As Ludwig AI validates, its utility spans diverse contexts, most notably news, science, and encyclopedic content. When writing, ensure clarity by always specifying the intended use or recipient of the "a sum for". Common alternatives include "an amount allocated to" or "funds designated for". By adhering to these guidelines, writers can effectively leverage "a sum for" while averting potential ambiguities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an amount allocated to

This alternative focuses on the allocation aspect, emphasizing the designation of funds.

funds designated for

This phrase highlights the specific purpose for which the funds are intended.

a payment intended for

This alternative emphasizes the act of payment and the intended recipient.

an allocation towards

This phrase focuses on the act of allocating resources to a specific cause or project.

a contribution for

This option highlights the aspect of contributing to a cause or project.

money earmarked for

This alternative stresses that the money has been specifically set aside for a purpose.

an allowance provided for

This suggests a regular or pre-approved amount given for a specific reason.

a grant awarded for

This phrase is specific to situations where funding is provided through a grant.

compensation allotted for

This alternative suggests money given as recompense for something.

resources assigned to

This phrase is less specific to money and includes other types of resources.

FAQs

How can I use "a sum for" in a sentence?

You can use "a sum for" to indicate an amount of money allocated or intended for a particular purpose. For example, "The budget includes "a sum for" infrastructure improvements".

What can I say instead of "a sum for"?

You can use alternatives like "an amount allocated to", "funds designated for", or "a payment intended for" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a sum for" or "an amount for"?

Both ""a sum for"" and "an amount for" are correct, but ""a sum for"" often implies a more specific or intended purpose.

What's the difference between "a sum for" and "a payment for"?

"A sum for" is a more general term referring to an amount of money, while "a payment for" specifically indicates money given in exchange for goods or services.