substantive concern

USAGE SUMMARY

"substantive concern" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an issue that is serious or significant and needs attention or consideration. For example, "The company board discussed a substantive concern regarding the company's potential exposure to legal liability."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

But over time – and especially since the Tories came back with their unexpected majority – any substantive concern with sharing the pain disappeared, and we were left only with spin.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The local GPs expressed substantive concern only about the quality of care at the trust after the announcement of the Healthcare Commission investigation, when it had become obvious there were issues and when they were specifically asked".

The Guardian

Sikkink recounts the reemergence of human rights as a substantive concern, showing how external pressures from activist groups and the institution of a human rights bureau inside the State Department have combined to remake Washington's agenda, and its image, in Latin America.

Cornell University

"Governor Sebelius has tangled with the White House before and will again if needed, but the response to the State of the Union message was not the time for it". A far more substantive concern with Sebelius could be that she doesn't provide what Obama truly needs.

HuffPost

The substantive concern is what is the role of rotating flagella in establishment of the symbiosis?

eLife

1) The most substantive concern regarding the data is 'where is the rest of it?'.

eLife

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Substantive concerns were ignored.

The Guardian - Opinion

The distinctive boundaries and substantive concerns of this field, however, have remained difficult to discern.

American Journal of Preventive Medicine

Instead, Mr. Menendez said, he has "substantive" concerns about her knowledge of constitutional issues.

The New York Times

Mr. Menendez claims that his opposition to Judge Shwartz was based on "substantive" concerns about her knowledge of constitutional law.

The New York Times

"If the governor has substantive concerns about the bill that he has signed, we didn't hear about them.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "substantive concern", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the concern relates to. Be specific about the nature of the concern to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While appropriate in formal writing, avoid using "substantive concern" in casual conversation. Opt for simpler phrases like "big worry" or "major issue" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantive concern" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a significant or important worry or issue. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and usable in written English. The adjective "substantive" modifies the noun "concern", emphasizing the seriousness of the issue at hand.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

31%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

25%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "substantive concern" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase to express a significant worry or issue. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for written English. It's common in formal contexts like news, science, and academia, highlighting serious matters that require attention. When writing, use "substantive concern" to clearly indicate a noteworthy problem and consider simpler alternatives like "major issue" in informal settings. Remember to specify the exact nature of the concern to avoid any ambiguity. This ensures that your communication is both precise and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant worry

Focuses on the worrying aspect of the issue, emphasizing its potential impact.

major issue

Highlights the importance and scale of the problem.

serious problem

Emphasizes the gravity and potential consequences of the matter.

critical matter

Stresses the urgency and importance of the issue at hand.

grave apprehension

Highlights a feeling of anxiety and unease about a significant situation.

profound misgiving

Suggests a deep-seated doubt or worry about something.

notable anxiety

Focuses on the feeling of unease related to a particular issue.

considerable reservation

Indicates a significant level of doubt or hesitation about something.

weighty consideration

Highlights the importance and seriousness of the issue being considered.

genuine unease

Emphasizes the authentic feeling of discomfort and worry.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "substantive concern" in a sentence?

To use "substantive concern" effectively, ensure that the context clearly defines the issue or problem causing the concern. For example, "The board expressed a "substantive concern" regarding the company's financial stability."

What phrases are similar to "substantive concern"?

Alternatives to "substantive concern" include "significant worry", "major issue", or "serious problem", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "substantive concern" in informal conversations?

While grammatically correct, "substantive concern" is more suited to formal or professional settings. In informal contexts, consider using simpler terms like "big worry" or "major issue."

What makes "substantive concern" different from a regular concern?

"Substantive concern" implies a significant or serious worry that has a solid basis. It suggests that the concern is not trivial and requires careful consideration, distinguishing it from everyday worries or minor issues.