significant reversal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significant reversal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where a notable change or turnaround occurs, often in discussions about trends, behaviors, or situations. Example: "The recent data shows a significant reversal in the company's sales figures compared to last quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We're not going to see a significant reversal of that for some time".

The New York Times

The scale of the drop was so spectacular that this year drugs officials were bracing for a significant reversal.

The Guardian

In early 2000, we advised our clients to be notably underweight in technology and the current recommendation is a significant reversal of that view.

The New York Times

After three days trading we are now off over 8% and there is nothing out there currently that could spark a significant reversal from this trend.

The Guardian - Business

For a company that has expanded through the cut-and-thrust of dealmaking this is a significant reversal.

The Economist

THIS year, China is predicting a significant reversal of a recent decline in its grain production, and officials say grain reserves are ample.

The Economist

"The idea is that things would happen today that are commonly thought of as impossible, most notably a significant reversal of China," Mr. Hendry said.

The New York Times

But even many investors who expect further volatility do not expect any significant reversal in the big market rally of the last few years.

The New York Times

That decision was a significant reversal for Mr. Préval, who had refused Mr. Aristide's request for a passport for years, partly in response to international pressure.

The New York Times

Yet even if European state capacities were in place, absent the spectre of socialism or at least profound rebellion – unless, that is, until European elites are scared again – the likelihood of any significant reversal of direction remains remote.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the most significant reversal of economic policy since North Korea was founded, that Communist nation has announced the establishment of an autonomous capitalist investment zone near its border with China.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "significant reversal", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being reversed and the degree to which it has changed. Providing specific details strengthens the impact of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "significant reversal" when the change is minor or unsubstantiated. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant reversal" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "significant" modifies the noun "reversal". According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, indicating a notable change or turnaround.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

49%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "significant reversal" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a substantial change in direction. As Ludwig AI confirms, its appropriateness spans various contexts, including news, science, and business. While interchangeable alternatives like "major shift" or "notable turnaround" exist, being precise about the change and avoiding overstatement are key to effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notable turnaround

Focuses on the positive change or improvement after a negative period.

major shift

Emphasizes the scale and importance of the change that has occurred.

marked change

Highlights the distinctness and visibility of the alteration.

substantial alteration

Indicates a considerable modification or adjustment.

dramatic shift

Conveys the sudden and impactful nature of the change.

complete turnaround

Stresses that the alteration is complete or that things are now developing opposite than before.

remarkable transformation

Highlights the impressive and noteworthy nature of the change.

radical change

Emphasizes that the change is fundamental and far-reaching.

fundamental shift

Indicates a deep and essential alteration at the base or foundation.

considerable modification

Stresses that the amendment is important and should be considered carefully.

FAQs

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

You can use "significant reversal" to describe a notable change in trends, policies, or situations. For example, "The company experienced a "significant reversal" in sales after implementing the new marketing strategy."

What's the difference between "significant reversal" and "slight change"?

"Significant reversal" implies a major change in the opposite direction, while "slight change" indicates a minor or subtle adjustment. The former indicates a substantial shift, while the latter suggests minimal impact.

What can I say instead of "significant reversal"?

You can use alternatives like "notable turnaround", "major shift", or "dramatic change" depending on the context.

Is it always positive to describe a situation as a "significant reversal"?

No, a "significant reversal" can be positive or negative depending on the context. It simply indicates a notable change in direction. Whether it's good or bad depends on what's being reversed and the implications of that change.