such a lag

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "such a lag" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant delay or slow response in various contexts, such as technology, communication, or processes. Example: "There was such a lag in the video call that it made the conversation difficult to follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Such a lag is not uncommon after deaths.

The New York Times

Intelligence officials say such a lag is typical of the ever-changing process of piecing together shards of information into a coherent picture fit for officials' public statements.

The New York Times

He said the county did not notice because there is such a lag in state reimbursement payments that the last check from the state arrived on March 24 , 2001 even though reimbursement payments were ended Jan . 1 , 1999

The New York Times

Regulators are planning to look into why there was such a lag between the discovery of the problem and when Knight's trading ceased, according to people with knowledge of the discussions.

The New York Times

But Zeebe and his colleagues didn't find such a lag between the carbon and the oxygen isotopes.

Science Magazine

Anyone who studies the ways in which technology gooses productivity will quickly learn that there's always such a lag.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

With such a lagging flap built in, Robojelly can now create stronger and more sustained vortices with each pulse, giving it a bigger push in water.

Science Magazine

Such delays have been attributed to factors such as a lag between when a case is identified by a health or laboratory professional and when that case is reported to the local public health authority [ 19, 20].

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

Such a time lag in compensation has created more displeasure among the livestock owners (Leki, pers.

Pastoralism

And there's such a tiny lag in between the images used to composite together an HDR shot that you'll find very little of that ghosting that happened under the previous system.

TechCrunch

The presence of such a time lag was shown by Volpe [6], who demonstrated that reduction in the number of cancer cells does not occur immediately after the start of imatinib administration but rather after a certain time period.

Advances in Difference Equations

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing technological responsiveness, quantify "such a lag" with specific measurements (e.g., milliseconds, seconds) to provide clarity and context.

Common error

Ensure you are not mistakenly using "lag" when you mean "lead". "Lag" refers to a delay, while "lead" refers to being ahead. For example, avoid saying "The technology lags in innovation, causing such a lead for competitors" when you actually mean "The technology lags in innovation, causing such a lag for its adoption".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such a lag" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and usable, confirming its established grammatical function. It describes a period of delay or slow response, frequently in contexts involving time-sensitive processes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "such a lag" is a grammatically sound expression used to denote a delay or pause. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and acceptable in written English. While its frequency is uncommon, appearing in both science and news media contexts, it effectively conveys the presence of a notable delay, often implying a need for investigation or resolution. To enhance clarity, particularly in technical discussions, consider quantifying the lag with specific units of time. Remember to avoid confusing "lag" with "lead", which have opposite meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a considerable delay

Emphasizes the length or significance of the delay.

a noticeable pause

Highlights the interruption or cessation of activity.

a significant gap

Focuses on the interval or space between two points in time or progress.

a marked slowdown

Stresses the reduction in speed or progress.

a protracted interval

Highlights that the interval is extended or prolonged.

a substantial waiting period

Underscores the time spent waiting for something to happen.

a prolonged hiatus

Indicates a lengthy break or interruption.

a consequential time lapse

Implies the passing of time has important repercussions.

an appreciable respite

Focuses on the temporary suspension or relief from something.

a considerable procrastination

Emphasizes a delay caused by postponing or delaying action.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "such a lag" in a sentence?

You can replace "such a lag" with alternatives like "a considerable delay", "a noticeable pause", or "a significant gap" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "such a lag" in formal writing?

Yes, "such a lag" is grammatically correct and can be used in formal writing to describe a delay or slow response. However, ensure the context is appropriate and consider quantifying the lag for clarity.

What does "such a lag" typically refer to in technical contexts?

In technical contexts, "such a lag" often refers to a delay in data processing, network communication, or system responsiveness. It indicates a period where the expected output is not immediately available.

How does "such a lag" differ from "such a delay"?

The phrases are largely interchangeable. While both refer to a period of inactivity or postponement, "lag" often implies a technical or procedural delay, while "delay" is more general.