stronger schedule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stronger schedule" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a timetable or plan that is more rigorous or demanding than another. Example: "This semester, we have a stronger schedule that includes more advanced courses and additional study sessions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Duke's stronger schedule included a victory over Virginia.

The New York Times - Sports

For one thing, it tilts the schedules by having superior teams play a slightly stronger schedule the next year.

The New York Times - Sports

Massachusetts defeated Hofstra during the season, but Hofstra received a bid because it played a stronger schedule.

The New York Times - Sports

And now the new quality-win component encourages teams to play a stronger schedule and gives a significant reward for wins over highly ranked opponents".

The New York Times - Sports

Such a committee might have overruled the B.C.S. computers, which determined that the Sooners and the Tigers, both 12-1, were the top two teams in the nation, primarily because they played a stronger schedule than U.S.C.'s.

The New York Times - Sports

We had an inordinate amount of lopsided games last year, but we feel on paper that we have a stronger schedule this year," said Carol Kruse, ESPN's senior vice president for marketing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

A not-so-strong schedule did in Massachusetts then.

The New York Times - Sports

"Alabama at the moment has not played a very strong schedule," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

And the Lady Bears have the top R.P.I. for having the strongest schedule in the nation.

The New York Times

The Tigers are hoping that the strong schedule will toughen them for the softer Ivy League play.

The New York Times - Sports

Jerry Palm said he did not think Oklahoma State's edge would disappear in the computers because it has a strong schedule.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing improvements or changes to a timetable, use "stronger schedule" to convey that the new schedule is more demanding or challenging than the previous one.

Common error

While "stronger schedule" is acceptable, consider more context-appropriate alternatives like "busier schedule" or "more packed schedule" in casual settings. This will help you maintain a natural and suitable tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stronger schedule" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "stronger" modifies "schedule". Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in English, indicating its established grammatical role.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Sports

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stronger schedule" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe a more demanding or rigorous timetable. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. While versatile, it is most frequently encountered in news, business, and sports contexts. When using this phrase, consider the specific context and formality level to ensure the most appropriate tone. Alternatives like "more demanding schedule" or "tighter schedule" may sometimes be more suitable. The prevalence of authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian further validates its acceptability in professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more demanding schedule

Focuses on the increased difficulty or rigor of the schedule.

more rigorous schedule

Highlights the strictness and thoroughness of the schedule.

more challenging schedule

Emphasizes the difficulty and stimulation involved in the schedule.

tighter schedule

Indicates a schedule with less flexibility and more constraints.

busier schedule

Refers to a schedule filled with more activities or commitments.

more packed schedule

Similar to "busier schedule", but with a connotation of being very full.

more intensive schedule

Suggests a schedule with a higher concentration of activities in a shorter timeframe.

enhanced schedule

Emphasizes the improved or upgraded nature of the schedule.

improved schedule

Simply states that the schedule is better than before.

amped-up schedule

A more informal way of saying the schedule has been intensified.

FAQs

How can I use "stronger schedule" in a sentence?

You can use "stronger schedule" to describe a timetable that is more demanding than another, such as, "This semester, we have a "stronger schedule" that includes more advanced courses."

What are some alternatives to "stronger schedule"?

Alternatives include "more demanding schedule", "more rigorous schedule", or "tighter schedule" depending on the specific context.

Is "stronger schedule" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "stronger schedule" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing strategic plans or improvements. However, ensure that the tone aligns with the overall formality of the document. Alternatives like "more intensive schedule" may be more fitting in certain professional contexts.

What does it mean to have a "stronger schedule" in the context of sports?

In sports, a "stronger schedule" refers to a list of games against tougher or more highly-ranked opponents. Teams often seek a "stronger schedule" to improve their rankings or prepare for playoffs.