quite a high

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quite a high" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to indicate an especially large amount or degree, or to show exaggeration. For example, "My math test score was quite a high 90!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's quite a high threshold.

Independent

There is, she explains, "quite a high bar for negligence".

The Guardian

There's quite a high suicide rate, as well.

The New York Times - Science

That must have been quite a high school.

The New York Times

Even if you miss, it's still quite a high jump".

The Guardian

The small fry won — but at quite a high price.

The New York Times

"Historians have been debating it at quite a high level.

The Guardian - Books

There was quite a high price on my head".

The Guardian

He had shaved hair but quite a high cut.

The Guardian - Sport

For a number of years, it was quite a high.

The New York Times

That's quite a high cut-off in certain countries in certain contexts.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "quite a high" to emphasize a degree, level, or amount that is notably above average. This phrase works best when you want to subtly exaggerate a characteristic without being overly dramatic.

Common error

Avoid using "quite a high" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives like "significantly elevated" or "remarkably high" to maintain a serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite a high" functions as an intensifier modifying a noun. It indicates that the noun it modifies possesses a quality or quantity that is notably above average. According to Ludwig, this expression is grammatically sound and frequently encountered in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quite a high" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to emphasize a level or degree that is notably above average. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase sees common usage in various contexts such as news, science, and general conversation. While its usage is frequent, it's advisable to avoid it in strictly formal or academic writing, opting for more precise alternatives. The phrase functions as an intensifier, adding emphasis to the characteristic being described and is generally perceived as having a neutral tone. In essence, it's a useful tool for subtly highlighting significant quantities or qualities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considerably elevated

Replaces "quite a high" with more formal vocabulary, emphasizing the elevated nature of something.

noticeably significant

Highlights the importance or impact of something that is "quite a high" amount.

significantly advanced

Implies forward progress that is noticeably "quite a high" relative to a prior state.

remarkably great

Emphasizes the unexpected or noteworthy nature of the height or degree.

impressively large

Shifts the focus to size, implying something is substantial and worthy of admiration.

appreciably greater

Indicates that something is higher to a degree that is easily perceived or measured.

substantially increased

Focuses on the act of rising to a greater extent; suggests an upward trend.

exceptionally tall

Specifically focuses on physical height, suggesting a deviation from the norm.

distinctly superior

Emphasizes the quality of being "quite a high" compared to others, focusing on excellence.

extremely developed

Highlights the completeness or maturity of something to an exceptional extent; more formal.

FAQs

How can I use "quite a high" in a sentence?

You can use "quite a high" to describe a level, amount, or degree that is notably above average. For example: "The company reported "quite a high" profit this quarter" or "The standard is "quite a high" one to meet".

What are some alternatives to "quite a high"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "considerably elevated", "remarkably great", or "exceptionally tall" to convey a similar meaning while varying your vocabulary.

Is it correct to say "rather a high" instead of "quite a high"?

Yes, "rather a high" is grammatically correct and can often be used interchangeably with "quite a high", though the nuance may subtly differ depending on the specific situation.

What is the difference between "quite a high" and "very high"?

"Very high" simply indicates a high degree or level. "Quite a high" implies a similar meaning but can also carry a slight sense of surprise or emphasis, suggesting it's higher than expected.