heavy backlog

USAGE SUMMARY

'heavy backlog' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a large number of tasks or responsibilities that need to be completed or addressed. For example, "With heavy backlog of work, I'm struggling to make time for my family."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Mental health services are creaking because of a heavy backlog.

The Guardian - Opinion

The firm essentially shut down in September, despite having a heavy backlog of orders.After worker protests, the city government settled contract claims.

The Economist

With the measure passed, the court can now begin clearing a heavy backlog of cases, one-third of which are against Russia.

The New York Times

Nakheel is one of the more exposed of Dubai's corporations, with a US$3.5bn issue of sukuk (Islamic fixed-income securities) falling due at the end of 2009 and a heavy backlog of payments owed to international contractors and consultants.

The Economist

Mr. Schwartz moved the office from antiquated quarters in the Municipal Building to modern offices nearby, and dealt with a heavy backlog of cases by attracting dedicated young lawyers, hiring others from the private sector when specialized expertise was needed and instituting a pro bono program in which major law firms performed extensive free legal work for the city.

The New York Times

His call to action comes amid renewed criticism of the Department of Veterans Affairs, which has been under congressional scrutiny due to a heavy backlog of benefits claims and canceled appointment times.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Kenya's courts have heavy backlogs, and it can take years to successfully prosecute and convict criminals.

The New York Times

"A large backlog inevitably results".

The New York Times

The giants' big spending plans spell more trouble for laggards, as they have to wait nine months to get their order for chip processing systems to be delivered because of a heavy order backlog.

The New York Times

"We've got big backlogs of orders.

The New York Times

Many Federal judges have complained they are overworked because of heavy caseloads and backlogs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "heavy backlog", be specific about what the backlog consists of (e.g. "heavy backlog of orders", "heavy backlog of cases"). This provides clarity and context to your writing.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the severity of a "heavy backlog" without providing supporting evidence or context. Overuse can diminish the phrase's impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heavy backlog" functions as a noun phrase, where "heavy" modifies the noun "backlog". It typically acts as a subject or object in a sentence, describing the existence of a large accumulation of pending items. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "heavy backlog" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a substantial accumulation of pending tasks, cases, or items. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. While not overly formal, it is suitable for professional, news, and some scientific contexts. It is important to provide specific context when using this phrase to clarify what constitutes the backlog. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media. While semantically different, consider alternatives like "significant accumulation" or "substantial amount pending" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

large accumulation of pending work

Explicitly refers to work and emphasizes its pending status, adding clarity.

significant accumulation

Emphasizes the substantial quantity that has built up. It's more formal than "heavy backlog".

considerable number awaiting processing

Focuses on the processing stage and indicates that many items are waiting to be handled. More technical.

severe accumulation

Emphasizes the intensity of the accumulation, indicating it's a serious issue.

substantial amount pending

Highlights the volume of items that are awaiting attention or resolution. Uses 'pending' for more precision.

extensive collection of unresolved issues

Specifically refers to unresolved issues, highlighting the problematic nature of the accumulation.

unmanageable number of cases

Highlights that the accumulation has reached a point where it cannot be readily controlled.

overwhelming list

Replaces quantitative descriptors with a qualitative one, suggesting it is too large.

massive inventory surplus

Relates to inventory and highlights there is more than is needed. A narrow term.

mountain of tasks

Uses a metaphorical expression to describe the size of the accumulation

FAQs

How can I use "heavy backlog" in a sentence?

You can use "heavy backlog" to describe a large quantity of pending tasks or items, such as "The department is working to reduce the heavy backlog of customer service requests".

What is another way to say "heavy backlog"?

Alternatives to "heavy backlog" include "significant accumulation", "substantial amount pending", or "large accumulation of pending work", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "heavy backlog" in formal writing?

Yes, "heavy backlog" is generally acceptable in formal writing, particularly in business or professional contexts. However, consider more formal alternatives like "significant accumulation" if a more elevated tone is desired.

What causes a "heavy backlog"?

A "heavy backlog" can arise from various factors, including increased demand, insufficient resources, inefficient processes, or unexpected disruptions.