fundamental shift

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fundamental shift" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used to describe a significant or essential change in something, such as a situation, idea, or belief. Example: The recent advances in technology have caused a fundamental shift in the way we communicate and interact with others.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

That's a fundamental shift.

The New York Times

This was a very fundamental shift.

The Guardian

A fundamental shift had to happen.

The Guardian - Music

It's a fundamental shift in thinking.

The Guardian - Tech

This is a fundamental shift from streaming's early days.

The New Yorker

But in recent decades a fundamental shift has taken place.

The Guardian

That's really what the fundamental shift has been".

The Guardian - Tech

All these changes signal a fundamental shift in our behaviours.

The Guardian

Belafonte's lament illuminates a fundamental shift in black popular culture.

The Guardian - Opinion

Still, Professor Goldman said, the decision represented a fundamental shift.

The New York Times

China encapsulates this fundamental shift in climate policy dynamics.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "fundamental shift" with specific details to illustrate the scope and consequences of the change. Avoid using it vaguely; provide context to enhance its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "fundamental shift" to describe small or incremental adjustments. This weakens the phrase's impact and can make your writing sound hyperbolic. Reserve it for genuinely significant transformations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fundamental shift" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It signifies a substantial and foundational change in a system, process, or perspective. As indicated by Ludwig, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English, commonly used to describe significant alterations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fundamental shift" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant and foundational change. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, especially in news, science, and formal business settings. It's crucial to reserve this phrase for substantial alterations rather than minor adjustments to maintain its impact. When using it, provide specific details to illustrate the scope and consequences of the change. Alternatives like "radical change" or "significant change" can be used depending on the context. By understanding its proper usage, writers can effectively convey the depth and magnitude of change in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant change

Highlights the importance and impact of the alteration.

paradigm shift

Refers to a major change in the way of thinking or doing things.

major transformation

Focuses on the comprehensive and extensive nature of the change.

radical change

Emphasizes the extreme or dramatic nature of the change.

revolutionary change

Emphasizes the radical and transformative nature of the change.

profound alteration

Stresses the depth and far-reaching effects of the change.

sea change

Implies a substantial and noticeable transformation.

sweeping reform

Indicates a broad and comprehensive change, particularly in a system or organization.

tectonic shift

Suggests a massive and impactful shift, similar to the movement of tectonic plates.

game changer

Highlights that the change has a significant impact, altering the course of events.

FAQs

How can I use "fundamental shift" in a sentence?

Use "fundamental shift" to describe a significant change in thinking, approach, or underlying principles. For example, "The internet caused a "fundamental shift" in how information is accessed and shared."

What are some alternatives to "fundamental shift"?

You can use alternatives like "radical change", "significant change", or "major transformation" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "fundamental shift" and "gradual change"?

"Fundamental shift" implies a sudden or profound alteration, whereas "gradual change" suggests a slow and incremental process. They are opposite in meaning.

When is it appropriate to use the term "fundamental shift"?

Use "fundamental shift" when describing changes that affect the core structure or underlying principles of something. It's appropriate when the change is substantial and far-reaching, impacting the very foundation of the subject.