the vast proportion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the vast proportion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large part or majority of something in a formal or academic context. Example: "The vast proportion of the population supports the new policy, indicating a strong consensus among citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

The vast proportion of any checked bag's contents is irreplaceable.

The Guardian - Opinion

The vast proportion of Txakolina is consumed in Basque country.

The New York Times

The vast proportion of our profits are generated abroad," he added.

The Guardian - Business

The vast proportion of all violence involves attackers striking close to where they live.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The vast proportion of the people were happy with what they saw.

The Guardian

This is a reminder that the vast proportion of casualties of terrorism are Muslims killed by co-religionists.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

The third was that a vast proportion of the welfare budget went on the unemployed and the "feckless".

The Guardian - Business

According to a report into the earnings of almost 2,500 working writers released on Monday by Queen Mary, University of London, there is a "huge inequality" in the amount of money made by writers, with the top earners taking a vast proportion of the total money earned.

The Guardian - Books

That left EPA administrator Stephen Johnson in a tough position: weighing the science of more than 1,700 new studies reviewed by the agency against the possible fallout if he declared a vast proportion of the country out of compliance.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Their wealth in land and slaves became part of the national patrimony, and well before Francia's death (1840) the state came to own a vast proportion of the country.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What makes this more moving than saccharine is both the pleasantly cynical humour of the characters (Jon spends a vast proportion of his time swearing at himself for his own stupidity) and its wider reach.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the vast proportion", ensure that the context clearly defines the total amount being referred to. This adds precision and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "the vast proportion" when referring to something that is inherently small or limited in quantity. This phrase works best when describing a majority of something substantial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the vast proportion" functions as a determiner phrase, specifying the extent or quantity of a noun. It indicates that a significant majority or large part of something is being referred to, functioning to quantify or specify the subject being discussed. Ludwig AI confirms it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

41%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the vast proportion" is a grammatically sound and useful phrase for indicating a significant majority in formal writing. Ludwig AI validates its usability. While not as common as alternatives like "the majority" or "most of", it adds emphasis to the scale of the proportion. It is commonly found in News & Media and Science contexts, making it a reliable choice for professional, academic, and neutral communication. Remember to ensure clarity by defining the total amount being referred to and avoiding its use in inherently small contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the great majority

Emphasizes the majority as being substantial and significant, slightly more emphatic.

the overwhelming majority

Highlights that the majority is so large it effectively 'overwhelms' other parts, conveying a stronger sense of dominance.

the bulk

Focuses on the sheer volume or size of the main part, suitable when the physical quantity is important.

the major part

A straightforward alternative indicating that something constitutes the main portion.

most of

A simpler and more common phrase that directly indicates the greater part of something.

a large segment

Highlights that a large component part constitutes the total, more suitable when discussing populations or defined groups.

a significant portion

Emphasizes that the proportion is important or noteworthy, adding a layer of relevance.

the lion's share

Indicates that the biggest portion, is similar to someone getting most of something, is very idiomatic.

the preponderance

More formal and less common term meaning superiority in weight, force, or influence.

the better part

Indicates that the largest and most desirable part is involved.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "the vast proportion" in a sentence?

Use "the vast proportion" to emphasize that a large majority of something is being referenced. For example, "The vast proportion of students attend the lecture." This highlights the size of the group attending.

What are some alternatives to "the vast proportion"?

Alternatives include "the majority", "a significant portion", or "most of". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "the vast proportion" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "the vast proportion" leans towards formal usage. In informal contexts, consider simpler alternatives like "most" or "a lot of".

What's the difference between "the vast proportion" and "the majority"?

"The vast proportion" suggests a notably large majority, emphasizing the scale. "The majority" simply indicates more than half, without necessarily implying a particularly large amount. Therefore, "the vast proportion" can be used to describe "the overwhelming majority".