a tidy sum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tidy sum" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an amount of money that is larger than expected or more than you would need for a particular purpose. For example: "I was able to save a tidy sum by using coupons when shopping for groceries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Darwin also picked up a tidy sum.

The Guardian - Sport

Many a tidy sum was made on that premise.

The New Yorker

"It can add up to a tidy sum," she said.

The New York Times - Arts

It would have made him a tidy sum.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A smart assessor, with good judgment and a quick eye, could make a tidy sum.

The Guardian

I'm also trying to raise a tidy sum for Charity: water.

The Guardian - Travel

They could have sacked him last October and saved themselves a tidy sum.

The Guardian - Opinion

He bet accordingly, and when Italy did not default, he made a tidy sum.

The Washington Post

You might think you've got your money back; in fact, you have lost a tidy sum.

The Economist

If that were the sum of the value volunteering creates, it would be a tidy sum.

Independent

My father left me $30,000 -- a tidy sum back then.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about financial matters, use "a tidy sum" to add a touch of understatement, especially if the amount contrasts with expectations or efforts.

Common error

Avoid using "a tidy sum" in highly formal or technical contexts. It's best suited for situations where a touch of informal appreciation is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tidy sum" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition to denote a considerable amount of money. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase follows standard grammatical rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a tidy sum" is a common and acceptable way to describe a pleasingly large amount of money. As Ludwig AI confirms, it adheres to standard grammatical rules and is widely used across various sources, predominantly in News & Media. While the phrase suggests a considerable quantity, it also carries a connotation of satisfaction and perhaps a touch of surprise. For alternatives, consider phrases like "a considerable amount" or "a substantial sum" to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a substantial sum

Emphasizes the significant value or size of the amount.

a handsome sum

Suggests the amount is attractive or pleasing, implying satisfaction.

a considerable amount

Focuses on the size of the sum, suggesting it's noteworthy.

a significant amount

Highlights the importance or impact of the money involved.

a respectable sum

Indicates the amount is worthy of esteem or consideration.

a fair amount

Indicates an acceptable or reasonable quantity of money.

a decent amount

Suggests the sum is adequate or satisfactory for a particular purpose.

a goodly amount

An older, somewhat formal way to indicate a respectable quantity.

a worthwhile amount

Emphasizes the value or benefit derived from the sum.

a lucrative amount

Highlights the profitable nature or potential of the sum.

FAQs

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

You can use "a tidy sum" to describe a pleasingly large amount of money. For example, "She earned "a tidy sum" from her investments this year."

What's the difference between "a tidy sum" and "a large amount"?

"A large amount" is a more general term. "A tidy sum" implies the amount is surprisingly good or satisfactory, often exceeding expectations.

Which is correct, "a tidy sum of money" or "a tidy sum"?

Both are correct, but ""a tidy sum"" is more concise and commonly used. Adding "of money" can be redundant.

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

You can use alternatives like "a considerable amount", "a substantial sum", or "a handsome sum" depending on the context.