a useful contribution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a useful contribution" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an input or addition that adds value or helps in a particular context, such as discussions, projects, or research. Example: "Her research provided a useful contribution to the ongoing debate about climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a useful contribution because the comparisons are used so often to frame the debate about more regulation of for-profit colleges.

Stanford University

Nevertheless, it is good to know what other people are using and this is therefore a useful contribution.

F1000Research

Nonetheless, the description of these patterns is already a useful contribution to the conjunctive management of water use.

Applied Water Science

This does not strike me as a useful contribution.

The New Yorker

This is a useful contribution to bioethics and related fields.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In any case, thank you for a useful contribution.

University of California, Berkeley

And I think pointing that out has been a useful contribution.

The New Yorker

Nevertheless, Errol Morris, for one, believes the old man still has a useful contribution to make.

The Guardian - Film

Yes, I still believe that nuclear power can make a useful contribution to low-carbon energy.

The Guardian - Opinion

That suggests Camden tenants may be making a useful contribution to IDS's housing benefit savings target.

The Guardian

The ethical consumer lobby makes a useful contribution to the debate here.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a useful contribution", ensure the context clearly indicates what the contribution is useful for. This provides clarity and enhances the impact of your statement.

Common error

While "a useful contribution" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid using it repeatedly within a short span. Vary your language with alternatives like "a valuable addition" or "a helpful input" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a useful contribution" primarily functions as a noun phrase that describes something beneficial or valuable in a specific context. According to Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English and can refer to any input or addition that adds value.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

31%

News & Media

41%

Science

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a useful contribution" is a versatile phrase that describes something beneficial or valuable in a given context. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct and widely used in written English. Its high frequency across diverse sources, particularly in academia, news, and science, highlights its appropriateness for formal and informal settings. When employing this phrase, clarity in specifying the contribution's usefulness enhances its impact. Alternatives such as "a valuable addition" or "a helpful input" can prevent overuse, maintaining reader engagement. By understanding its function and varying usage, one can effectively leverage "a useful contribution" to emphasize positive impacts and added value.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valuable addition

This alternative emphasizes the worth and importance of the contribution.

a helpful input

This highlights the supportive nature of the contribution.

a significant improvement

This suggests that the contribution leads to a notable positive change.

a meaningful impact

This stresses the importance and lasting effect of the contribution.

an instrumental role

This emphasizes the crucial part played by the contribution.

a positive influence

This focuses on the beneficial effect of the contribution.

a constructive suggestion

This underlines the helpful and practical nature of the contribution as an idea.

a practical advantage

This alternative underscores the hands-on, real-world benefit derived from the contribution.

a welcome addition

This highlights that the contribution is happily received and appreciated.

a worthwhile effort

This emphasizes the value and merit of the work involved in the contribution.

FAQs

How can I use "a useful contribution" in a sentence?

You can use "a useful contribution" to describe something that adds value or assists in a particular situation. For example, "Her research provided "a useful contribution" to the climate change debate".

What are some alternatives to "a useful contribution"?

You can use alternatives like "a valuable addition", "a helpful input", or "a significant improvement" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "a useful contribution" and "a helpful contribution"?

While both phrases are similar, ""a useful contribution"" generally emphasizes the practical value or utility of something, whereas "a helpful contribution" focuses on the support or assistance provided.

In what contexts is "a useful contribution" most appropriate?

"A useful contribution" is suitable in various formal and informal settings, including academic discussions, business meetings, and news reports, where highlighting the positive impact of an action or idea is necessary.