substantial alteration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantial alteration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a significant change or modification in a particular context, such as legal documents, contracts, or design specifications. Example: "The proposed changes to the contract will require a substantial alteration to the original terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Rebuilt means having had substantial alteration or reconstruction of the hull or principal structural component.

Cornell University

They often suffer of a substantial alteration due to an increasing atmospheric pollution.

Electrochimica Acta

Attainment of the MSTP would require substantial alteration to global biomass management, but would not endanger food security, habitat or soil conservation.

Nature

So wages and benefits, we've already had a very substantial alteration in the alignment between work and hands on deck and the staff ranks.

Cornell University

Substantial alteration to rooting patterns was observed in the commercial wheat cultivar Wyalkatchem and in narrow-leafed lupin (Lupinus angustifolius) grown in sandy soils where compaction is common.

Field Crops Research

(i Improved right-of-ways means routes which are of a permanent nature and would involve substantial alteration of the terrain or vegetation such as grading and graveling of surfaces or other such construction.

Cornell University

However, the work as a whole, drawn directly from the Seinfeld episodes without substantial alteration, is far less transformative than other works we have held not to constitute fair use.

Harvard University

In the macroscopic responses, prior transverse direction loading resulted in widening of the reorientation plateau, a reduction of the effective Young's modulus, and substantial alteration of effective Poisson's ratios during axial direction straining.

Acta Materialia

Jerry Hewes, Mayville, New York   Research has shown that epigenetic changes can result in substantial alteration in when and how genes are expressed based on our interactions with our environment.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Altogether, these disorders lead to substantial alterations of the intestinal microbiota and may alter and disturb the finely tuned intestinal hemostasis [10].

Molecular and Cellular Pediatrics

Meanwhile, substantial alterations were also observed in metabolites related to oxidative stress.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantial alteration", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being altered and the degree of significance of the change. For example, specify 'a substantial alteration to the company's marketing strategy' rather than just 'a substantial alteration'.

Common error

Avoid using "substantial alteration" when the change is minor or insignificant. Using a weaker term like 'slight adjustment' or 'minor modification' would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantial alteration" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use in academic, scientific, and news contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

Academia

20%

News & Media

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "substantial alteration" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant change or modification. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and very common, particularly in scientific, academic, and news contexts. When writing, remember to use "substantial alteration" when you want to emphasize the degree of significance of a change and avoid using it for minor adjustments. Alternatives like "significant modification" or "major transformation" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant modification

Focuses on the act of changing something significantly but might imply a more controlled or planned process.

fundamental change

Implies a change that affects the essential nature or structure of something.

major transformation

Implies a complete change in form or appearance, suggesting a more dramatic shift.

considerable revision

Emphasizes the act of reviewing and making significant corrections or improvements.

extensive adjustment

Highlights the process of making widespread changes to achieve a better fit or result.

radical modification

Suggests changes that are fundamental and affect the root of something.

sweeping reform

Refers to large-scale changes implemented to improve a system or organization.

profound shift

Indicates a deep and significant change in direction or attitude.

marked variation

Highlights a noticeable difference or deviation from the norm.

noticeable difference

Emphasizes that the change is easily observed or detected.

FAQs

How can I use "substantial alteration" in a sentence?

You can use "substantial alteration" to describe a significant change to something. For example: "The new regulations require a "significant change" to our current procedures."

What can I say instead of "substantial alteration"?

You can use alternatives like "significant modification", "major transformation", or "fundamental change" depending on the context.

Is "substantial alteration" formal or informal?

"Substantial alteration" is generally considered a formal phrase suitable for professional, academic, or technical contexts.

What is the difference between "substantial alteration" and "minor adjustment"?

"Substantial alteration" refers to a significant change, while "minor adjustment" indicates a small, often insignificant modification. Use "substantial alteration" when the change has a major impact.