to a large extent

USAGE SUMMARY

"to a large extent" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is true in a large or significant degree. For example: "To a large extent, the new plan appears to have been successful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To a large extent, yes.

Independent

To a large extent, he already has.

The New Yorker

To a large extent, we have.

The New York Times

Foreigners, to a large extent.

The New York Times - Books

To a large extent they are.

The Guardian

He's an idealist, to a large extent".

The Guardian - Arts

To a large extent, that's changed".

The New York Times

"It's fair to a large extent".

The New York Times - Sports

To a large extent you still don't.

The Guardian - Opinion

To a large extent, Washington has reciprocated.

The New York Times

To a large extent, it has worked.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to a large extent", ensure that the context clearly indicates what aspect or quality is being qualified. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "to a large extent" when the situation is wholly true or false. This phrase is best suited for scenarios where something is partially, but significantly, true.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to a large extent" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the degree to which something is true or applicable. As evidenced by Ludwig, it serves to qualify statements, expressing that something holds true partially but significantly.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

15%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to a large extent" is a versatile adverbial phrase that indicates something is partially but significantly true. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. When writing, use this phrase to qualify statements, ensuring the context clearly defines what aspect is being limited. Consider related phrases like "to a considerable degree" or "substantially" for variety. Avoid overusing it in situations where something is either entirely true or false. This helps maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To a considerable degree

Replaces "extent" with "degree", emphasizing the level or intensity involved.

In large measure

Uses "measure" instead of "extent", suggesting a significant portion or amount.

To a great extent

Substitutes "large" with "great", indicating a high level or degree.

Substantially

A single word alternative, conveying that something is true to a significant degree.

Largely

A shorter, more direct adverb meaning 'mainly' or 'to a great extent'.

For the most part

Indicates that something is true in most cases, but not necessarily all.

To a significant degree

Emphasizes the importance or impact of the degree or extent.

Principally

Highlights the main or primary aspect of something.

Primarily

Similar to "principally", focusing on the main reason or cause.

Mostly

Suggests that something is true in the majority of cases.

FAQs

How can I use "to a large extent" in a sentence?

Use "to a large extent" to indicate that something is partially, but significantly, true. For example, "To a large extent, the success of the project depended on teamwork."

What are some alternatives to "to a large extent"?

You can use alternatives like "to a considerable degree", "in large measure", or "substantially" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "to a very large extent"?

While not strictly incorrect, "to a very large extent" can be redundant. "To a large extent" already implies a significant degree, so adding "very" may not add substantial meaning.

What's the difference between "to a large extent" and "completely"?

"To a large extent" indicates a partial truth or influence, whereas "completely" implies a full and absolute truth. Using "completely" suggests there are no exceptions or limitations.