unacceptably large

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unacceptably large" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is excessively large to the point of being unacceptable in a given context. Example: "The project's budget has grown to an unacceptably large amount, prompting the need for a review."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Step two, protect the firm against unacceptably large concentrations.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

At higher velocities the error becomes unacceptably large.

Journal of Hydrology

For other cases, the errors can be unacceptably large.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

So that's the second part of our job is to protect against unacceptably large losses.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

However, the uncertainty exhibited in wind power data is generally unacceptably large.

Applied Energy

Depending on the leak diameter and source pressure, the resulting consequence distances can be unacceptably large.

International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

Constant reference to the framework prevents the errors in the detail survey from accumulating and growing unacceptably large.

Britannica

Once everyone gets the message that secrecy carries unacceptably large risks, they will act in ways that minimise those risks.

The Guardian - Business

"Unacceptably large numbers of families across the country are still at risk of losing homes," said Mr. Geithner.

The New York Times

But both countries are on Trump's shortlist of nations that run unacceptably large trade surpluses with the U.S.

Harvard Business Review

If permeability results from such tests prove unacceptably large, strategies for in situ mitigation of potential leakage pathways become important.

Energy Procedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unacceptably large", ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes the acceptable limit. For example, "The defect rate was unacceptably large, exceeding the company's quality control standards."

Common error

Avoid using "unacceptably large" without providing a reference point. The phrase loses its impact if the reader doesn't understand why the size is unacceptable. Instead of saying "The debt was unacceptably large", specify "The debt was unacceptably large, exceeding the country's GDP by 20%."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unacceptably large" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that its size or magnitude is beyond what is permissible or tolerable. As evidenced by Ludwig, this commonly expresses a negative evaluation of something's size or extent.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unacceptably large" is an adjective phrase used to express that something's size, quantity, or extent exceeds acceptable limits. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and commonly used in formal writing across various domains, including science, news, and business. When employing this phrase, clarity is crucial; always provide context to define what makes the size unacceptable. Consider alternatives like "excessively large" or "prohibitively large" for nuanced meaning. Remember, "unacceptably large" is more than just describing size; it conveys a judgment, signaling disapproval or concern.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Prohibitively large

Indicates the size is so great it prevents something from happening.

Excessively large

Emphasizes the size is beyond what is considered normal or reasonable.

Unduly large

Suggests the size is inappropriate or unwarranted in a particular context.

Inordinately large

Highlights the size as being excessive and exceeding reasonable bounds.

Unreasonably large

Focuses on the lack of logical justification for the size.

Unjustifiably large

Stresses the absence of a valid reason for the great size.

Unmanageably large

Indicates the size is so big it is difficult or impossible to control.

Unwieldy large

Focuses on size being cumbersome and difficult to handle.

Alarmingly large

Highlights the size as a cause for concern or worry.

Disproportionately large

Suggests the size is out of balance with other factors.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "unacceptably large" in a sentence?

To effectively use "unacceptably large", provide context that clarifies why the size or amount is problematic. Mentioning the specific threshold or standard that is being exceeded can strengthen your argument. For example, "The project's cost overruns were "unacceptably high", surpassing the initial budget by 50%."

What are some alternatives to "unacceptably large"?

Depending on the specific context, alternatives include "excessively large", "prohibitively large", "unduly large", or "inordinately large". Choose the alternative that best fits the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "unacceptably large" in formal writing?

Yes, "unacceptably large" is generally appropriate for formal writing, especially when you need to convey that something exceeds a defined or implied limit. However, ensure that your writing is clear and concise. Always ensure that the context clarifies what makes the quantity or size unacceptable. Alternatives like "excessive" might be preferred for a more concise tone.

How does "unacceptably large" differ from "very large"?

"Very large" simply indicates a significant size, whereas "unacceptably large" implies that the size is problematic or undesirable in a specific context. The addition of "unacceptably" introduces a judgment or evaluation of the size rather than a mere description. Depending on the intention, you can use alternatives like "excessively large", "unduly large", or "prohibitively large" to indicate the implied judgment.