substantial time away

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantial time away" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant duration of absence from a place or situation, often implying a notable impact or change due to that absence. Example: "After spending substantial time away from the office, I returned to find many changes had taken place."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Her only substantial time away was four years at Princeton University.

The New York Times

It is true that the children in our study spent substantial time away from home.

Environmental Health Perspectives

14 15 However, when considering the total burden of injury, many seemingly 'minor' injuries that do not result in hospitalisation, such as soft tissue injuries, can result in substantial time away from the workplace for rehabilitation and recovery.

BMJ Open

This late start for urban children, especially urban girls, in organized sports robs them of the opportunity for physical activity, coaching, being part of a team, learning skills, and substantial time away from "negative recreation" (drugs, violence or sexual activities).

Bplans

After substantial time away, the majority of these girls do not end up re-entering the school system, mainly due to the stigma associated with older girls re-entering school with their younger peers and, lack of childcare support for young mothers [ 37].

BMC International Health and Human Rights

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

If the writer lives in his parents' home for a "substantial period" when not in school or on such a job assignment, the time away can count toward the residency period.

The New York Times

Some more time away together.

The New York Times

It will require substantial forces and substantial time to put those forces in place to move.

The New York Times

"The high-class prostitutes had a very, very substantial time.

The Guardian - Arts

"It took time away from him".

The New Yorker

"Now he takes time away from us".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantial time away", consider the context to ensure the adjective 'substantial' accurately reflects the significance of the absence. It implies more than just a brief break.

Common error

Avoid using "substantial time away" when a shorter, less impactful absence is meant. Phrases like "a short break" or "a brief hiatus" may be more appropriate for minor absences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantial time away" functions as a noun phrase, where 'substantial' modifies 'time' and 'away' indicates direction or separation. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable. This phrase typically modifies another verb or noun, describing the extent of an absence.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "substantial time away" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English that describes a significant absence. Ludwig AI validates this assessment. While relatively rare, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly science, news media and formal business, with a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure that the adjective 'substantial' accurately reflects the weight and impact of the absence you are describing. Related phrases include "significant period of absence" and "lengthy absence".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant period of absence

Emphasizes the length and importance of the absence.

considerable time off

Focuses on the time taken as a break or leave.

lengthy absence

Highlights the duration of being away.

extended leave of absence

Formal term for a prolonged period of being away, often from work or school.

prolonged period away

Stresses the extended nature of the absence.

long-term absence

Indicates a absence for a long duration.

significant duration away

Highlights the importance of the time while being away.

sizeable duration away

Focuses on the notable length of the absence.

appreciable time off

Emphasizes that the absence is noticeable and has an impact.

marked absence

Highlights that the absence is obvious and cannot pass unnoticed.

FAQs

How can I use "substantial time away" in a sentence?

You can use "substantial time away" to describe a significant absence from a place or activity. For example: "After a substantial time away from the office, I had to readjust to the work environment."

What are some alternatives to "substantial time away"?

Alternatives include "significant period of absence", "lengthy absence", or "prolonged period away", depending on the specific context.

Is "substantial time away" formal or informal?

"Substantial time away" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it leans towards a more neutral or slightly formal tone. Consider the audience and purpose of your communication when choosing this phrase.

What does "substantial" mean in the context of "substantial time away"?

In this context, "substantial" implies that the time away is significant, considerable, or notable. It suggests that the absence is not brief or insignificant.