make a splash

USAGE SUMMARY

"make a splash" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to an event, situation, or person that has a big impact or draws a lot of attention. For example: "The launch of the new product made a splash in the tech industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Someone's about to make a Splash!

Independent

Most likely to: Make a splash.

The Guardian - Music

Man, did it make a splash.

The Washington Post

SOME plants just naturally make a splash.

The New York Times

"They also need to make a splash".

The New York Times

JAMES CAMERON knows how to make a splash.

The Economist

There are certainly occasions when they make a splash.

The Economist

But can they make a splash in March?

The Guardian - Sport

He had never intended to make a splash.

The New York Times - Books

He has always liked to make a splash.

The Guardian

Can any of the other candidates make a splash tonight?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a splash" when you want to emphasize that something or someone is creating a noticeable and memorable impression. For example, a new product launch can "make a splash" in the market.

Common error

While "make a splash" is a vivid expression, avoid overusing it in a single piece of writing. Too much repetition can diminish its impact. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms like "attract attention" or "generate buzz".

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "make a splash" functions as a verb phrase within a sentence. It describes the act of creating a noticeable and often exciting impression. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and widely used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

4%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make a splash" is a common and grammatically sound idiom used to describe something that attracts attention or has a significant impact. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this phrase is valid and useful in written English. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, with a neutral to informal register. If you're looking for alternatives, consider options like "attract attention" or "generate buzz", but be mindful of the specific nuances each conveys. Be aware of overusing it and make it less efficient. Finally, I recommend to use it to describe when you want to emphasize that something or someone is creating a noticeable and memorable impression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make an impact

Focuses on the effect rather than the attention garnered.

stand out

This alternative emphasizes being noticeable or different from others.

attract attention

This alternative focuses on the act of drawing attention, rather than the magnitude of the impact.

turn heads

This alternative refers to attracting attention in a visual or noticeable way.

cause a sensation

This alternative suggests creating widespread excitement and interest.

generate buzz

This alternative emphasizes the creation of excitement and chatter around something.

gain recognition

This focuses on achieving acknowledgement or fame.

create a stir

This option highlights the act of causing excitement or controversy.

take center stage

Implies becoming the main focus of attention.

become prominent

This suggests gaining importance or visibility.

FAQs

How can I use "make a splash" in a sentence?

You can use "make a splash" to describe someone or something that attracts a lot of attention or has a big impact. For example, "The company's new marketing campaign is expected to "make a splash" in the industry".

What's a less common alternative to "make a splash"?

While "make a splash" is common, a less frequent alternative is "create a stir". Both phrases imply generating attention, but "create a stir" can also suggest causing some controversy.

Which is more appropriate, "make a splash" or "make an impact"?

Both ""make a splash"" and "make an impact" are appropriate, but they have slightly different connotations. "Make a splash" emphasizes attracting attention, while "make an impact" emphasizes having a significant effect.

What does it mean to "make a splash" in a business context?

In a business context, to ""make a splash"" means to do something that significantly raises awareness of a company, product, or service, often through innovative marketing or public relations efforts. Alternatives are "generate buzz" or "gain recognition".