significant backlog

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significant backlog" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large amount of work or tasks that are pending or overdue, often in a business or operational context. Example: "Due to the recent surge in demand, we are currently facing a significant backlog of orders that we need to address."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

But a significant backlog remains.

The New York Times

Sadly, despite tens of millions of dollar in federal grants, a significant backlog remains.

The New York Times

In addition, Mr. Dillon wrote, commissioners' productivity is not monitored, creating "a significant backlog of cases".

The New York Times

But Cameron said: "There is now a significant backlog of orders and we are confident of a strong Christmas season".

The Guardian - Business

Richard Spires, deputy I.R.S. commissioner, warns of a significant backlog in processing returns, as well as confusion for the taxpayer.

The New York Times

"There is a likelihood of a significant backlog in grant and renewal without an increase in the costs of a licence.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It said there were "significant backlogs" with specialist units unable to cope with the demand.

Independent

Two previous inspector general reports also faulted the bureau for significant backlogs in reviewing information in other languages.

The New York Times

The State Department says the demand for tourist visas would probably surge to 12 million in the 2005 fiscal year from 7 million in 2003, creating a workload that would most likely swamp consular staffs and create significant backlogs in issuing visas.

The New York Times

One significant concern of this structure is that workers on H-1B visas cannot leave their employer while waiting for green-card sponsorship, which can be over a decade for those coming from countries with significant backlogs, because of green-card quotas.

The New York Times

One child protection source shared the concerns of Ms Howard and Mr Simmons, telling Newsnight they were worried about "significant backlogs", suggesting it was not unusual for it to take months for victims to be identified.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the impact of a "significant backlog", quantify it whenever possible (e.g., "a significant backlog of 200 cases").

Common error

Don't just say there's a "significant backlog"; explain what it consists of and the specific consequences it causes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant backlog" functions as a noun phrase, where 'significant' modifies the noun 'backlog'. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable. It typically serves as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

13%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "significant backlog" is a commonly used and grammatically sound way to describe a substantial accumulation of pending items, tasks, or orders. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts. It's prevalent in news, science, and business domains. When using this phrase, aim for clarity by quantifying the backlog and specifying its impact. While "large backlog" is similar, "significant backlog" emphasizes the importance or impact of the accumulation, making it a stronger choice in many situations. Consider alternative phrases such as "substantial accumulation" or "considerable delay" for variety and to best fit the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

substantial accumulation

Emphasizes the quantity that has built up over time.

considerable delay

Focuses on the time-related aspect of the backlog.

major accumulation

Indicates that there is a large amount of something built up.

extensive queue

Highlights the waiting line or sequence aspect.

large inventory

Relates to unsold products/tasks that have built up.

notable logjam

Implies a standstill or blockage preventing progress.

accumulated workload

Refers specifically to pending tasks or assignments.

serious pileup

Suggests a chaotic accumulation of items or tasks.

outstanding volume

Highlights the large quantity that still needs completion.

growing list

Implies tasks or items are being added continuously to the backlog.

FAQs

What does "significant backlog" mean?

A "significant backlog" refers to a notably large accumulation of pending tasks, orders, cases, or items that need to be processed or completed. It implies that the volume is substantial enough to cause delays or challenges.

How can I use "significant backlog" in a sentence?

You can use "significant backlog" to describe various situations. For instance, "The company is facing a "significant backlog" of orders due to increased demand", or "The court system has a "significant backlog" of cases awaiting trial".

What are some alternatives to "significant backlog"?

Alternatives include "substantial accumulation", "considerable delay", or "large inventory", depending on the specific context. You could also use phrases like "extensive queue" or "notable logjam".

Is it better to say "significant backlog" or "large backlog"?

"Significant backlog" and "large backlog" are quite similar, but "significant" often implies that the backlog is not only large but also important or impactful. "Large backlog" simply indicates size. The best choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the importance or just the size of the backlog.