quite a list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quite a list" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the impressiveness or length of a list, often in a context where the list is surprising or noteworthy. Example: "After reviewing the project requirements, I realized we have quite a list of tasks to complete before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

It's quite a list.

The New York Times

That's quite a list.

The New Yorker

Quite a list.

The Guardian

That is quite a list.

The Guardian

And it is quite a list.

The New York Times

That's quite a list of virtues.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

An indication of how Mr. Rodriguez, nicknamed A-Rod, has not been quite A-list in advertising: A newspaper coupon ad in 2001 in which he appeared for the Mennen Speed Stick Ultimate antiperspirant misspelled his surname as "Rodriquez".

The New York Times

Mr. Cagle is a not-quite-A-list country star with an amusing problem: He doesn't sing the way he seems.

The New York Times - Arts

A stalwart of the stage and screen for almost half a century, Nigel Davenport never quite found A-list stardom, but his moustache, piercing gaze, thick eyebrows and scowling expression made him a character actor sought by directors in all mediums.

Independent

Your book features quite the A-list, but you left out one person: your sister Serena.

Forbes

So, quite a short list?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "quite a list" to express surprise or admiration at the extent or quality of the items listed. It's most effective when the list is longer or more impressive than expected.

Common error

While "quite a list" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and descriptive alternatives like "extensive inventory" or "comprehensive compilation" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite a list" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying an implied or stated noun (e.g. "things to do", "items", or "reasons"). It typically expresses a reaction to the length, variety, or impressiveness of the list. Ludwig's examples show its use in describing various collections, from government initiatives to product offerings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

11%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quite a list" is a common phrase used to express surprise, acknowledgement or admiration regarding the length, variety or impressiveness of a list. As supported by the Ludwig AI analysis, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media sources, also acceptable in business settings. While versatile, it should be used cautiously in formal or academic contexts, where more specific alternatives like "extensive inventory" or "comprehensive compilation" might be more appropriate. When you want to add some variety, synonyms such as "substantial inventory" or "impressive array" can be used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impressive array

Focuses on the quality and presentation of the collection, suggesting it is visually or conceptually striking.

remarkable assortment

Stresses the diversity and perhaps unexpected nature of the items in the collection.

substantial inventory

Emphasizes the size and comprehensiveness of the collection, shifting the focus to the quantity.

extensive compilation

Underscores the thoroughness and effort involved in gathering the items together.

considerable catalog

Highlights the breadth and variety within the collection, framing it as an organized set of items.

notable series

Highlights that the list is part of an important sequence.

sizeable inventory

Focuses on the large quantity of the list.

lengthy enumeration

Directly addresses the extended nature of the list.

broad spectrum

Captures the scale of the list in relation to all possibilities.

comprehensive summary

Conveys the complete overview of an information set.

FAQs

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

"Quite a list" is typically used to react to a series of items or tasks, expressing that it is extensive or impressive. For example, "The museum has quite a list of artifacts on display".

What can I say instead of "quite a list"?

You can use alternatives like "substantial inventory", "extensive compilation", or "remarkable assortment" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "quite a list" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "quite a list" leans towards informal usage. In formal contexts, consider stronger and more descriptive alternatives such as "comprehensive inventory" or "extensive catalog" to maintain a professional tone.

Which is more emphatic, "quite a list" or "long list"?

"Quite a list" carries a tone of surprise or appreciation for the extent of the list, whereas "long list" is a more neutral description of its length. "Quite a list" is generally more emphatic.