kind of substantial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kind of substantial" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express that something is somewhat significant or considerable, but not entirely so. Example: "The changes made to the project were kind of substantial, leading to a noticeable improvement in the final outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

For Mr. Connors, the desegregation story provides the kind of substantial news he believes viewers want as much as they need.

The New York Times - Arts

"But to draw any kind of substantial support, we have to show people that it serves their urgent self-interest to do something about mental-health care for the poor.

The New York Times - Magazine

But despite the outcries, neither in San Francisco nor elsewhere in the country is there much recent history of the kind of substantial voting fraud that could lead to criminal convictions or overturn elections.

The New York Times

In a standard tougher than those of most private plans, recipients must prove that because of physical or mental disabilities they are unable to do "any kind of substantial work" for at least 12 months — if an engineer could not do his job but could work as a clerk, he would not qualify — or prove that an illness is expected "to result in death".

The New York Times

And despite taking steps to begin granting sovereignty to a transitional Iraqi government, he has yet to persuade any nations that do not already have troops in Iraq to make the kind of substantial military commitment that could help speed a reduction in American forces.

The New York Times

But they did not represent what happened to millions of other people who were not opponents of the regime and did not engage in any kind of substantial dissent, but were still dispatched to labor camps, to exile in remote settlements or to summary execution.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Hence, Burley sharply distinguishes between two main kinds of substantial form: one singular (forma perficiens materiam) and the other universal (forma declarans quidditatem).

SEP

Thus if any of this analysis of motion is taken literally then one arrives at a position regarding the ontology of spacetime rather like that of Newton's regarding space: it is some kind of 'substantial' (or maybe pseudo-substantial) thing with the geometry of Galilean spacetime, just as absolute space possessed Euclidean geometry.

SEP

As a kind of clean, substantial and renewable energy, solar energy can reduce environmental pollution with an extensive application potential.

Renewable Energy

One can distinguish between two kinds of criticism: substantial modification of Aristotelian ideas on the one hand, and outright rejection on the other.

SEP

What kind of obstacle is "substantial"?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "kind of substantial", ensure that the context provides enough information to understand the specific degree of significance being conveyed. Avoid using it in situations where a more precise descriptor would be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid relying on "kind of substantial" in professional documents or academic papers, as it can come across as vague. Opt for more specific adjectives like "significant", "considerable", or "notable" to enhance clarity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kind of substantial" functions as a qualifier, typically modifying a noun or noun phrase. It indicates that something possesses a notable degree of significance or size, without being entirely definitive. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "kind of substantial" is a grammatically sound way to describe something that possesses a noticeable degree of significance or size, without being definitively large or important. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in English writing. While it's most frequently found in news and media contexts, its neutral register makes it suitable for various situations, though it's advisable to use more precise language in highly formal or academic settings. Alternatives like "somewhat significant" or "fairly considerable" can offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clarifies the specific degree of significance intended, and avoid overuse in formal writing to maintain clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat significant

This alternative uses simpler vocabulary to convey a similar level of importance.

fairly considerable

This option emphasizes the amount or extent of something being discussed.

moderately important

This choice highlights the level of importance attached to something.

reasonably large

This alternative focuses on the size or quantity being referenced.

quite meaningful

This phrase underscores the significance or impact of something.

relatively major

This selection suggests a degree of importance that is above average.

noticeably greater

This alternative highlights a distinct increase or enhancement.

appreciably higher

This option indicates a measurable increase or improvement.

measurably impactful

This phrase specifies that the effect is significant and observable.

substantially relevant

This choice highlights the considerable importance to a particular matter.

FAQs

How can I use "kind of substantial" in a sentence?

You can use "kind of substantial" to describe something that is somewhat significant or considerable but not entirely so. For example, "The changes were "kind of substantial", leading to a noticeable improvement."

What's a more formal alternative to "kind of substantial"?

In formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives such as "significant", "considerable", or "notable" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "kind of substantial" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "kind of substantial" might be perceived as too informal for academic writing. It's often better to opt for more direct and precise language to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "kind of substantial" and "very substantial"?

"Kind of substantial" implies a moderate degree of significance, while "very substantial" suggests a much greater level of importance or impact. The choice depends on the specific level of emphasis you wish to convey.