on a serious scale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a serious scale" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is significant or substantial in nature, often in terms of impact or importance. Example: "The environmental crisis is affecting our planet on a serious scale, requiring immediate action from governments and individuals alike."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But that was then, and "Caroline" is now, replete with retribution on a serious scale.

The New York Times

Within a few years, Bouvier was buying and selling pictures on a serious scale, interacting almost solely with other dealers.

The New Yorker

It is fine to set aside brownfield sites and all the rest, but ultimately the state will have to build homes on a serious scale.

The Guardian - Opinion

The cost of addressing the problem, it said, could be limited to about 1% of GDP, provided it starts on a serious scale within 10 to 20 years.

The Guardian

"MIT gave me my first exposure to entrepreneurship on a serious scale, along with the confidence of knowing that the fact that nobody has done [something] before is no impediment," he says.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We cannot, but the more we immerse ourselves in any diary the better we come to know the writer and we soon develop an ability to tell if he is a self-deceiver on a serious scale.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The assertion that a "gap in standards of living" drives people to migrate on any serious scale is fallacious.

The Guardian

These efforts are unlikely to be tried on any serious scale without reform.

The New York Times

Perhaps because a scenario has always seemed just a bit too plausible, humans have not tried to weaponize other primates on any serious scale.

Britannica

First, because corporate borrowing on any serious scale is likely to push up interest rates even further than Alan Greenspan will, and to help widen credit spreads.

The Economist

With the banks, the big idea is protecting taxpayers by "bailing-in" bondholders to share the pain – a fine theory, but one that is yet to be tested on a truly serious scale in practice.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "on a serious scale" to emphasize that something is happening or being considered with significant magnitude, impact, or consequence. For example, "The company is investing in renewable energy on a serious scale to combat climate change."

Common error

Avoid using "on a serious scale" when referring to trivial matters. The phrase suggests a significant impact or scope, so ensure the context warrants such emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a serious scale" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the extent or manner in which something is done. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in describing the scope of retribution, building homes, or addressing problems.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a serious scale" is used to emphasize the substantial magnitude or impact of an action or event. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly news, academic writing, and scientific discussions. While not as common as "on a large scale", it conveys a greater sense of gravity or importance. When using the phrase, ensure the context warrants such emphasis, and be mindful of the overall tone you wish to convey. Consider alternatives like "on a considerable scale" or "to a significant extent" to fine-tune your meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a considerable scale

Emphasizes the extent or degree to which something occurs, highlighting its largeness.

on a significant scale

Focuses on the importance and impact of the scale, suggesting a notable effect.

on a grand scale

Implies a large and impressive scale, often with connotations of ambition or scope.

on a large scale

A general term for something being done or happening extensively.

to a serious extent

Indicates the degree to which something is serious or impactful.

in a significant way

Highlights the importance of the impact or effect.

to a considerable degree

Focuses on the level or magnitude of something.

in a major way

Suggests a substantial and influential impact.

on an extensive scale

Emphasizes the widespread nature of the scale.

to a critical degree

Points out the level is fundamental and vital.

FAQs

How can I use "on a serious scale" in a sentence?

Use "on a serious scale" to emphasize that an action, problem, or effort is significant in magnitude. For example, "The government is addressing deforestation "on a serious scale" to protect biodiversity".

What are some alternatives to "on a serious scale"?

Alternatives include "on a large scale", "on a grand scale", or "to a significant extent" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "on a serious scale" or "on a major scale"?

Both are acceptable, but "on a serious scale" often emphasizes the gravity or importance of something, while "on a major scale" simply implies a large extent. Choose the phrase that best fits the context.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "on a serious scale"?

Avoid using "on a serious scale" when describing minor or trivial situations. The phrase is best reserved for situations where the magnitude or impact is genuinely substantial.