substantial blow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantial blow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant impact or setback, often in a metaphorical sense, such as in discussions about challenges or losses. Example: "The company faced a substantial blow when its main competitor launched a similar product at a lower price."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

The huge losses on Wall Street constitute a substantial blow to the economy at large.

The New York Times

Either option would be a substantial blow to America's AfPak mission.

The Guardian - Opinion

The dissenting judge, Pierre N. Leval, called the decision "a substantial blow to international law".

The New York Times

Analysts said Lockheed's losing the bulk of the rocket contracts in 1998 was a substantial blow to its space program.

The New York Times

"My judgment is it's going to be a substantial blow" to chances for health care reform, Mr. Dingell said.

The New York Times

The Pyramid Lake War in the spring and summer of 1860 was another substantial blow to the company.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

A substantial increase in base pressure was observed for low coolant blowing rate.

Applied Thermal Engineering

Significant spatial variability in the winter mass fluxes was found between tundra, shrubs and forested sites, particularly due to the substantial blowing snow redistribution and sublimation from the wind-swept upper basin, as well as sublimation of canopy intercepted snow from the forest (about 17% of snowfall).

Journal of Hydrology

This is clearly therefore a significant blow, and the profit impact will therefore be substantial.

The Guardian - Business

Many farmers in ENY also felt a substantial economic blow, but only about half categorized the impacts as "moderate" to "severe", and the other half referred to it as "minor" or a "nuisance" (Fig. 3).

Cornell University

As the new millennium began, it dealt a substantial psychological blow to internet culture worldwide.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantial blow", consider the specific context to ensure the adjective accurately reflects the magnitude of the negative impact. Use it when the effect is truly significant, rather than mildly inconvenient.

Common error

Avoid using "substantial blow" for minor inconveniences. Overusing such strong language can dilute its impact when describing genuinely serious situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantial blow" functions as a noun phrase where "substantial" modifies the noun "blow". It serves to describe the magnitude or significance of a negative impact or setback. As exemplified in Ludwig, it's often used to denote serious consequences across various fields.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "substantial blow" is a common expression used to describe a significant negative impact or setback. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias and scientific publications. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that the adjective "substantial" accurately reflects the magnitude of the impact to avoid overstatement. Alternatives such as "significant setback" or "major impact" can be used depending on the specific context. The phrase maintains a neutral register and is suitable for formal writing when conveying a sense of importance and severity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant setback

Focuses on the hindering aspect of the event, highlighting its impact on progress.

major setback

Emphasizes the size and scale of the setback or negative event.

heavy impact

Highlights the force and severity of the effect.

serious consequence

Concentrates on the results and implications of an action or event.

considerable damage

Pinpoints the extent of harm caused.

significant damage

Focuses on the level of harm or destruction caused.

major impact

Underscores the magnitude and reach of the effect produced.

profound effect

Indicates a deep and lasting influence.

notable effect

Highlights that the impact is easily observed or worth mentioning.

material setback

Emphasizes the tangibility and importance of the hindrance encountered.

FAQs

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

You can use "substantial blow" to describe a significant negative impact or setback. For example, "The company's reputation suffered a substantial blow after the scandal."

What are some alternatives to "substantial blow"?

Alternatives include "significant setback", "major setback", or "heavy impact" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "substantial blow" in formal writing?

Yes, "substantial blow" is suitable for formal writing when describing a significant negative event or setback. However, always consider the tone of your writing and choose the phrase that best fits the context.

What's the difference between "substantial blow" and "minor setback"?

"Substantial blow" indicates a major negative impact, while "minor setback" implies a small, temporary obstacle. The choice depends on the severity of the situation you're describing.