substantial modification

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantial modification" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where significant changes or alterations to something are being discussed, such as in legal, technical, or academic writing. Example: "The project requires a substantial modification to the original design to meet the new safety standards."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And there seemed to be something in him which took it for granted that anything said by anybody except himself needed immediate denial or at least substantial modification.

The New Yorker

Automobile assembly plants did not readily accommodate airframes, nor could an automobile engine factory be converted without substantial modification.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The experts believe the Coalition's Direct Action policy needs substantial modification to reach the 2030 emissions reduction target that the government will pledge at the Paris climate change meeting next month.

The Guardian

Mr. Powell has already expressed skepticism about the rules and is in the middle of a review of them that experts predict will lead to their substantial modification in favor of the regional Bell companies.

The New York Times

And once the government commits to a target it will be under pressure to explain the policy it intends to use to meet it, with business groups, thinktanks and market analysts all arguing the Direct Action policy would need substantial modification before it was up to the task.

The Guardian

In the latter part of the 20th century and continuing into the 21st century, civil-law systems underwent substantial modification as a result of the changing sources of law in modern, bureaucratic, regulatory states.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The latter changes are now pervasive and range from the introduction of pesticides, such as DDT, and other industrial toxins, such as the PCBs, and acid rain, with substantial modification of the sulfur, nitrogen, and hydrogen ion budgets of ecosystems over large areas.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On the contrary, firms can modify commercial names with no substantial modification of the products.

SERIEs

Moreover, substantial modification was seen in the hydrophobicity and surface roughness.

Reactive and Functional Polymers

The main substantial modification to the protocol was approved in October 2011, following DAA withdrawal from the market.

Annals of Intensive Care

As seen, such changes of Na − Nd and τn lead to a substantial modification of the spectrum.

Materials for Renewable and Sustainable Energy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantial modification", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being modified and why the modification is significant. For clarity, specify the degree and impact of the change.

Common error

Avoid using "substantial modification" when the change is minor or cosmetic. Reserve this phrase for alterations that fundamentally affect the object or process being described.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantial modification" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb or following a preposition. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

64%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "substantial modification" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that indicates a significant alteration or change. According to Ludwig, it's correct and suitable for use in various writing contexts. Its formal tone makes it prevalent in scientific and technical domains, as demonstrated by the examples provided by Ludwig. While alternatives like "significant alteration" or "major adjustment" exist, understanding the nuance of "substantial" helps ensure its appropriate application. Its wide adoption across authoritative sources reinforces its reliability in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant alteration

This alternative highlights the importance of the change made.

major adjustment

This alternative emphasizes the act of making things fit or function better.

considerable revision

This alternative focuses on the review and correction aspect of the modification.

extensive change

This alternative stresses the breadth and scope of the alteration.

radical transformation

This alternative implies a fundamental shift in nature or form.

comprehensive overhaul

This alternative suggests a complete and thorough renovation or restructuring.

marked adjustment

This alternative highlights a noticeable and clear change.

material alteration

This alternative underscores that the modification is important and consequential.

appreciable amendment

This alternative indicates that the change is large enough to be recognized or valued.

fundamental restructuring

This alternative points towards a basic and foundational reorganization.

FAQs

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

Use "substantial modification" when you want to express that something has undergone a significant change. For example, "The software required "substantial modification" to meet user needs."

What are some alternatives to "substantial modification"?

Alternatives include "significant alteration", "major adjustment", or "considerable revision". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "substantial modification" or "major change"?

"Substantial modification" and "major change" are similar, but "substantial modification" often implies a more technical or complex alteration. Choose the phrase that best fits the tone and subject matter.

What's the difference between "substantial modification" and "minor adjustment"?

"Substantial modification" refers to a significant alteration, while "minor adjustment" indicates a small or insignificant change. The choice depends on the scale and impact of the modification.