a true breakthrough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a true breakthrough" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant and impactful advancement or discovery in a particular field or context. Example: "The new vaccine represents a true breakthrough in the fight against the virus, offering hope for millions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

He calls it "a true breakthrough in engineering".

The New York Times

But a true breakthrough doesn't seem to have happened yet.

The New York Times - Health

At age 24, Soderling is late for a true breakthrough.

The New York Times - Sports

Solving that part of the innovation cycle would be a true breakthrough.

MIT Technology Review

(The biggest technical limitation for mobile devices now is battery technology, which has not seen a true breakthrough in decades).

The New Yorker

While the trade show lacked a true breakthrough device, manufacturers were promising more excitement to come soon.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

There was a lack of true breakthrough titles to follow Akira, which eventually grossed $80m globally.

The Guardian - Film

Though Mr. Brown has found consistent work in television and film for more than a decade, his performance stands to be the one true breakthrough in a cast loaded with familiar faces.

The New York Times - Arts

His true breakthrough, though, came nearly a decade later with "American Born Chinese," in which stereotypes and multiple identities are brilliantly explored.

The Washington Post

Sovaldi represented a true medical breakthrough relative to previous HCV treatments — much shorter duration of therapy, dramatically reduced side effects, and very often a cure.

Harvard Business Review

Then on June 13 , 1953 the newspaper reported that rarest of events, a true scientific breakthrough: the structure of the molecule had finally been worked out by James Watson and Francis Crick, and the term "double helix" first entered the pages of The Times.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing "a true breakthrough", provide specific details about its effects and why it is considered a major achievement.

Common error

Avoid using "a true breakthrough" to describe minor improvements or incremental changes that do not represent a significant leap forward. Ensure the described advancement genuinely transforms the field.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a true breakthrough" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a significant advancement or discovery. Ludwig AI indicates that this is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a true breakthrough" is a noun phrase used to denote a significant and impactful advancement or discovery. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various fields. As the examples from Ludwig illustrate, the phrase is particularly prevalent in News & Media and Science contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the described advancement genuinely represents a substantial leap forward and avoid using it for minor improvements. Alternatives include "a genuine advancement" and "a significant innovation". It is important to correctly identify the contexts where this phrase is applicable to maintain the intended meaning and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a genuine advancement

Emphasizes the authenticity and progress made.

a significant innovation

Highlights the novelty and impact of the development.

a major turning point

Focuses on the transformative nature of the achievement.

a ground-breaking discovery

Stresses the pioneering aspect of the finding.

a revolutionary development

Highlights the radical change brought about.

a pivotal moment

Emphasizes the critical importance of the event.

a game-changing innovation

Indicates a fundamental shift in strategy or approach.

a watershed event

Implies a significant and lasting impact.

a remarkable achievement

Highlights the exceptional nature of the accomplishment.

a notable advancement

Stresses the importance and progress made.

FAQs

How can I use "a true breakthrough" in a sentence?

Use "a true breakthrough" to highlight a significant advancement or discovery. For example: "The new drug is "a true breakthrough" in cancer treatment."

What are some alternatives to using "a true breakthrough"?

You can use alternatives like "a genuine advancement", "a significant innovation", or "a major turning point" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a true breakthrough" in formal writing?

Yes, "a true breakthrough" is suitable for formal writing when describing substantial advancements or discoveries in academic, scientific, or business contexts.

What distinguishes "a true breakthrough" from a regular improvement?

"A true breakthrough" signifies a radical or transformative advancement, whereas a regular improvement refers to incremental progress or minor enhancements. It represents a substantial leap forward, setting it apart from ordinary changes.