large fraction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "large fraction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant portion or percentage of a whole in various contexts, such as statistics or general discussions. Example: "A large fraction of the population supports the new policy, indicating widespread approval."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But a large fraction fell victim to inertia.

The Economist

"A large fraction of the Japanese population eats it every day for breakfast".

The New York Times

A very large fraction of the patients eventually will die from their disease".

The New York Times

But Brown still proposes to devote a large fraction of national income to public purposes.

The Guardian

At different times, a large fraction of the warheads either obviously or potentially would not work".

The New York Times - Books

"By 1981, we knew a large fraction of the strategic intelligence, the big questions".

The New York Times

Of course, a large fraction of my life has now past.

The Guardian - Music

The Fifth Circuit judges picked up on another phrase in Casey: "a large fraction".

The New Yorker

A large fraction of those deaths must be blamed on Stalin.

The New Yorker

But why would ISIS throw away a large fraction of its fighting force there?

The New Yorker

Well, you might say, but farmers don't buy a large fraction of farm output, whereas homeowners buy a large fraction of overall US output.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "large fraction", ensure that the context clearly defines the whole to which the fraction refers. This provides clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "large fraction" when the actual proportion is relatively small. Quantify the fraction with more specific terms like "majority", "minority", or percentages to maintain accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "large fraction" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a significant portion of a whole. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts to quantify parts of a larger set.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "large fraction" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to denote a considerable portion of a whole. According to Ludwig, it is deemed correct and applicable across various contexts. It is most commonly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. While the phrase itself is relatively neutral, it's important to use it accurately, avoiding exaggeration when the actual proportion is small. Alternatives such as "significant portion" or "considerable share" can be employed for variety or to convey slight nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant portion

Focuses on the importance or impact of the part being described, rather than just the quantity.

considerable share

Highlights the amount or percentage that something represents in relation to a whole.

substantial segment

Emphasizes the size and importance of the group or part within a larger entity.

major part

Indicates that the portion is one of the most important or largest components.

appreciable quantity

Stresses that the amount is noticeable and not insignificant.

notable proportion

Highlights that the percentage or ratio is worthy of attention or mention.

bulk

Implies that the majority or largest part of something is being referenced.

lion's share

Suggests that the portion is the biggest and best part of something.

good deal

Indicates a large amount or quantity, but is less formal than "large fraction".

sizeable chunk

Emphasizes the magnitude of a piece or segment of the whole.

FAQs

How can I use "large fraction" in a sentence?

You can use "large fraction" to indicate a significant portion of a whole. For instance: "A "large fraction" of the students passed the exam."

What can I say instead of "large fraction"?

Alternatives to "large fraction" include "significant portion", "considerable share", or "substantial segment", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to use "large fraction" or "large percentage"?

"Large fraction" and "large percentage" are often interchangeable, but "large fraction" may be preferred when the emphasis is on the proportional part rather than a specific numerical value. A percentage is more precise.

When should I avoid using "large fraction"?

Avoid using "large fraction" if a more precise quantifier (e.g., "the majority", "one-third") is available and would provide greater clarity. Also, consider whether the fraction is genuinely "large" or if a more moderate term like "noticeable portion" would be more accurate.