a wave of reforms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wave of reforms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant and widespread change or series of changes in policies, practices, or systems, often in a political or social context. Example: "The government announced a wave of reforms aimed at improving the education system and increasing access to quality resources for all students."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

But handily, the surge in bankruptcies during the worst years as well as growing concern that outmoded rules are slowing the flow of capital to firms that could use it better—has initiated a wave of reforms around much of Europe.The European Commission, the reformer-in-chief, believes there are three main reasons why insolvency laws are overdue for reform.

The Economist

There has been a wave of reforms and mergers among banks and insurance companies.

The Economist

The rising gap between rich and poor (and the fear of socialist revolution) spawned a wave of reforms, from Theodore Roosevelt's trust-busting to Lloyd George's People's Budget.

The Economist

Yet recession is the worst time to make changes that leave some groups poorer.Italy's previous big recession, in 1992-93, prompted a wave of reforms: privatisations, changes to pension entitlements, the creation of a competition authority and the demise of the scala mobile.

The Economist

The government has set out a wave of reforms for the energy industry including the prospect of criminal sanctions for market manipulation, an Ofgem investigation into companies' profits, and moves to make it possible for consumers to switch suppliers within 24 hours.

The Guardian

Originally crafted by Brooks and Cullinane (2007), the Figure allows to explain many of the changes that took place in European and Latin American ports when a wave of reforms first took place in the 90s.

Journal of Shipping and Trade

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"Here's a guy who came in on a wave of reform.

The New Yorker

When India opened up in 1991 a wave of reform took place.

The Economist

But a wave of reform is sweeping Indonesia, and Government ministers are responding.

The New York Times

Chávez and his populist party rode in on a wave of reform, captured the National Assembly and started packing the courts.

The New York Times

It was part of a wave of reform that saw many countries in Latin America set up private schemes, in which workers pay contributions into individual retirement accounts.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a wave of reforms", ensure the context clearly indicates what area or system is being reformed to prevent ambiguity. For example, specify "a wave of economic reforms" or "a wave of educational reforms".

Common error

Avoid using "a wave of reforms" when the changes are minor or incremental. Reserve this phrase for significant, impactful transformations to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wave of reforms" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used to describe a significant series of changes or policy implementations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a wave of reforms" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a significant series of changes or policy implementations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its primary function is to emphasize the extent and impact of these changes. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, this phrase maintains a neutral to formal register. When using "a wave of reforms", it's best to be specific about the area being reformed and ensure that the changes are substantial to avoid overstating the impact. Alternative phrases like "sweeping changes" or "major policy shifts" can be considered based on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sweeping changes

This intensifies the scale of the changes, indicating a broad and extensive impact.

major policy shifts

This emphasizes the change in governmental or organizational policies, highlighting the directional changes implemented.

a comprehensive overhaul

This suggests a more thorough and complete transformation than just reforms, implying a systemic change.

a fundamental shift

This points to the basic or essential nature of changes, suggesting a deep and impactful alteration.

a series of changes

This alternative focuses on the sequential aspect of the changes rather than the magnitude or impact implied by "wave".

a significant reshaping

This alternative highlights the impact of the changes on the overall structure or form of something.

a period of restructuring

This phrase emphasizes the organizational changes during that period, shifting focus from specific reforms to a broader process.

a large-scale modification

This alternative stresses the size and extent of the alteration process.

a transformation initiative

This alternative focuses on the proactive nature of the changes, presenting them as a strategic effort.

a new chapter

This is a more metaphorical and abstract alternative that still suggests a significant turning point or fresh beginning, albeit less precise.

FAQs

How can I use "a wave of reforms" in a sentence?

You can use "a wave of reforms" to describe a series of significant changes in a particular area. For example: "The government implemented "a wave of reforms" to modernize the healthcare system".

What's a good alternative to "a wave of reforms"?

Alternatives include "sweeping changes", "major policy shifts", or "a comprehensive overhaul", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it appropriate to use "a wave of reforms" in formal writing?

Yes, "a wave of reforms" is suitable for formal writing. Ludwig AI indicates it is used in news, academic, and business contexts, indicating its acceptability in professional settings.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "a wave of reforms"?

Avoid using "a wave of reforms" if the changes are minor or do not represent a substantial transformation. Phrases like "minor adjustments" or "slight modifications" might be more accurate in such cases.