significant discrepancy

USAGE SUMMARY

"significant discrepancy" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when describing a large difference or inconsistency between two things, such as data, accounts, statements, or measurements. Example: There was a significant discrepancy between the budget projections and the actual expenses incurred, causing major financial issues for the company.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Neuroscientific data increasingly demonstrates a significant discrepancy between cognitive and affective functioning.

Harvard University

Plaintiffs' lawyers took full advantage of the significant discrepancy between state and federal courts in adjudicating IPO-related claims.

Harvard University

The results indicate that there is no significant discrepancy in the Cinfo of genders.

Displays

Significant discrepancy between simulated and measured profiles of NO concentration was observed in the rich flames.

Combustion and Flame

A lack of observed data can lead to significant discrepancy between estimated and actual fatigue reliability.

Structural Safety

In all cases, a significant discrepancy is found between the model predictions and experimental observations.

Acta Materialia

On the other hand, the significant discrepancy may exist when those sections are partially longitudinally delaminated.

Engineering Structures

They state, "There is no significant discrepancy between observations and models for lapse rate change between the surface and the full troposphere".

The Guardian

The department's expenditure on lawyers for prison cases in 2017 exposes a significant discrepancy in funding and shows how disadvantaged relatives are in coroner's courts, according to campaigners.

The Guardian

Another clue: a significant discrepancy between the number of procedures done annually, and the number of people who could potentially benefit from the intervention.

Stanford University

The uncertainty caused by occupant behaviors accounts for a significant discrepancy between the predicted and actual energy usage.

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "significant discrepancy", ensure you clearly identify the two elements being compared and the nature of the difference between them. Providing specific details will enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "significant discrepancy" when the difference is minor or inconsequential. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and credibility. Choose more appropriate language for smaller differences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant discrepancy" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in highlighting substantial differences or inconsistencies. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "significant discrepancy" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to denote a notable and meaningful difference. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a proper expression. It's most common in scientific, academic, and news contexts, emphasizing the importance of the divergence. When using this phrase, clearly identify the items being compared and the nature of the difference. While numerous alternatives exist, such as ""noticeable difference"" or ""major inconsistency"", "significant discrepancy" is a strong and versatile choice for highlighting substantial differences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major inconsistency

Focuses on the lack of alignment between different elements.

noticeable difference

Replaces "significant discrepancy" with a more general term for difference.

striking disparity

Highlights the inequality or imbalance between two things.

marked contrast

Highlights the opposition between two things more strongly than "significant discrepancy".

clear contradiction

Indicates a direct opposition or conflict.

considerable variation

Emphasizes the range of differences rather than a specific mismatch.

pronounced gap

Illustrates a separation or space between two things.

substantial divergence

Implies a gradual separation or moving apart, which is a nuanced difference.

notable deviation

Implies a departure from an expected standard or norm.

glaring incongruity

Emphasizes the absurdity or inappropriateness of the mismatch.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "significant discrepancy" in a sentence?

To effectively use "significant discrepancy", clearly state what two elements are being compared and the context of the difference. For example, "There is a significant discrepancy between the projected budget and actual spending."

What are some alternatives to "significant discrepancy"?

You can use alternatives like "noticeable difference", "major inconsistency", or "marked contrast" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "significant discrepancy" when there is a difference?

No, "significant discrepancy" should only be used when the difference is substantial and meaningful. For minor differences, consider using terms like "slight variation" or "small difference".

How does "significant discrepancy" compare to "minor difference"?

"Significant discrepancy" implies a large and important difference, while "minor difference" suggests a small and relatively unimportant distinction. The choice depends on the magnitude of the difference you are describing.