a world record

USAGE SUMMARY

"a world record" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific achievement that has been recognized as the best or most successful in the world. Example: "Usain Bolt set a new world record in the 100-meter dash, clocking in at 9.58 seconds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Click on "Break A World Record".

WikiHow

"That's a world record".

The New York Times

In fact he broke a world record.

The New York Times

Surely a world record.

The Guardian - Sport

This might have been a world record.

The Times

Again, it was a world record.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Now that he's a world record-holder?

Los Angeles Times

This may be a world-record-size slug.

The New York Times

"However, we determine what will be a world-record course".

The New York Times - Sports

Its formula is a world-record-breaking recipe for success.

The Guardian - Tech

Oh, and a world-record holder.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "a world record", ensure you specify the category or field in which the record was set for clarity and context. Avoid ambiguous references.

Common error

Avoid using "the world record" when referring to a general instance of setting a new record. Use "a world record" to indicate an unspecified, singular achievement. For example, it's better to say "She aimed to break "a world record"" rather than "She aimed to break the world record" unless you are talking about a specific, previously established record.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a world record" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb. Ludwig AI indicates its usage is grammatically correct. It identifies a specific achievement that is the best globally.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

11%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a world record" is a noun phrase used to describe an unparalleled global achievement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage. It is most commonly found in news and media, but also appears in scientific and wiki contexts, rendering its register as neutral. To use the phrase effectively, specify the category of the record and avoid confusing it with "the world record", which refers to a specific, existing record. Remember to use alternatives such as "record-breaking achievement" or "unprecedented feat" for variety. The phrase carries a strong connotation of excellence and significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Record-breaking achievement

Focuses on the act of breaking a record, highlighting the achievement itself.

Unprecedented feat

Emphasizes the uniqueness and novelty of the accomplishment.

Historic milestone

Highlights the historical significance and importance of the achievement.

Best-ever performance

Focuses on the superior quality and excellence of the performance.

World's best

Simple alternative that focuses on being the best in the world.

All-time high

Highlights that the number/amount is the highest it has ever been.

Exceptional accomplishment

Highlights how amazing the achievement is.

Remarkable achievement

Similar to exceptional accomplishment but uses slightly different tone.

Top mark

Highlights the amazing result (in the top).

Record result

Slightly changes the tone, by talking about the result.

FAQs

How can I use "a world record" in a sentence?

You can use "a world record" to describe an achievement that surpasses all previous records globally. For example, "The athlete's performance was so outstanding that she set "a world record" in the competition".

What are some alternatives to saying "a world record"?

Alternatives include phrases like "record-breaking achievement", "unprecedented feat", or "historic milestone" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "the world record" instead of "a world record"?

While "a world record" refers to a general instance of setting a new record, "the world record" refers to a specific, pre-existing record. For example, "She broke "the world record" previously held by another athlete" indicates a specific, known record.

What makes an achievement qualify as "a world record"?

An achievement qualifies as "a world record" when it is officially recognized by a governing body (such as Guinness World Records or a specific sports federation) as the best or highest globally in a particular category. The achievement must be measurable and verifiable.