Cool MateThe numbers are solid vs Valid
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
The numbers are solid
Top 5,000 (fairly common)
Valid
Top 2,000 (common)B2adjective
Most common: Valid
| The numbers are solid | Valid | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //ðə ˈnʌmbəz ə sɒlɪd//🇺🇸 //ðə ˈnʌmbərz ɑr ˈsɑːlɪd// | 🇬🇧 //ˈvælɪd//🇺🇸 //ˈvælɪd// |
| Meaning | The numbers are strong or reliable. | Something that is true or acceptable. |
| Example | After reviewing the data, I can confidently say that the numbers are solid. | The ticket was valid for one month. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 5,000 (fairly common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | - | B2 |
| Part of speech | adjective | |
| Collocations | solid evidence, solid performance, solid data, solid foundation, solid results | valid point, valid reason, valid contract, valid argument |
| Antonyms | - | invalid, unacceptable, illegitimate |
| Common mistakes | Misunderstanding 'solid' as only meaning physically hard rather than reliable., Using 'solid' in a vague context without explaining why the numbers are solid., Confusing the phrase with 'the numbers are good', which has a slightly different connotation. | Confusing 'valid' with 'validity' as a noun., Using 'valid' to describe emotions or feelings., Mixing up 'valid' with 'true' in casual conversation. |
| Usage notes | This phrase is often used in business or academic contexts to indicate that data or statistics are trustworthy. It's not typically used in informal conversation. | Use 'valid' to describe something that is lawful or logically sound. Avoid using in informal contexts. |
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Frequently asked questions: The numbers are solid vs Valid
What's the difference between The numbers are solid and Valid?
The numbers are solid: The numbers are strong or reliable. Valid: Something that is true or acceptable.
Which is more common: The numbers are solid and Valid?
Valid is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
The numbers are solid: After reviewing the data, I can confidently say that the numbers are solid. Valid: The ticket was valid for one month.
Can I use The numbers are solid and Valid interchangeably?
Not always. The numbers are solid and Valid are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.