a boost of confidence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a boost of confidence" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to a sudden increase in confidence or self-assurance. You can use it in various situations where someone has gained confidence or had their confidence improved. For example: - After receiving praise from her boss, Sarah felt a boost of confidence in her abilities. - The team's win at the championship gave them a much-needed boost of confidence. - Jenny's new haircut gave her a boost of confidence and she felt more attractive. - The motivational speaker's words gave the audience a boost of confidence to chase their dreams.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

"It's definitely a boost of confidence".

The New York Times - Sports

The episode gave Obama's communications aides a boost of confidence.

The New Yorker

It would also give BP a boost of confidence.

The New York Times

"Messi going on gave his teammates, and the fans, a boost of confidence," Ancelotti said.

The New York Times - Sports

Nothing adds a boost of confidence quite like a fierce pair of shoes.

The New York Times

McCarthy had his team sized for Super Bowl rings Saturday, figuring it would give players a boost of confidence.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

When I need a boost of self-confidence and recognition, I look to my Fitbit achievements and my career wins.

Huffington Post

I didn't think I was pretty, but falling in love, after diving for coins with Robert at our community pool, gave me a boost of self-confidence.

Huffington Post

"Having done such a weekend, it's a massive boost of confidence.

The Guardian - Sport

The return of the experienced center Jonathan Davies, who will renew his Grand Slam-winning midfield partnership with Jamie Roberts, is a huge boost of confidence for a team that is currently low on it.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, he said, the election of Mr. Obama, a friend for years, has given an unusual boost of confidence in a city that is usually nonplussed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a boost of confidence" to describe a specific event or achievement that noticeably increases someone's self-assurance. For example: "Completing the marathon gave her a significant boost of confidence."

Common error

Avoid using "a boost of confidence" when a general feeling of well-being or happiness is more accurate. Instead of saying "The vacation gave me a boost of confidence", consider "The vacation refreshed me and improved my overall mood".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a boost of confidence" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It describes something that enhances or increases one's self-assurance. Ludwig AI's analysis aligns with the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

24%

Huffington Post

18%

Less common in

The New York Times - Arts

2%

The Guardian - Sport

2%

Science Magazine

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a boost of confidence" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes an increase in self-assurance. As shown by Ludwig, its usage spans various contexts, primarily appearing in news and media and also in less formal writing such as wikis. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it's important to use it accurately, avoiding vague or overly general situations. By understanding its meaning and context, writers can effectively employ "a boost of confidence" to convey specific instances of empowerment and self-belief.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increased self-assurance

Focuses on the internal feeling of certainty and capability rather than an external factor causing it.

enhanced self-esteem

Highlights the improvement in one's overall sense of self-worth.

a surge of self-belief

Emphasizes a sudden and powerful increase in believing in oneself.

a wave of empowerment

Suggests a feeling of being enabled and in control, leading to increased confidence.

a shot in the arm

An idiomatic expression indicating something that invigorates or encourages.

positive reinforcement

Highlights the act of strengthening behavior with positive feedback, thereby increasing confidence.

added courage

Stresses the increase in bravery and willingness to face challenges.

a morale lift

Focuses on the improvement of overall team spirit and positivity, which indirectly boosts individual confidence.

feeling emboldened

Emphasizes the feeling of being encouraged and made brave.

greater self-reliance

Implies an increased ability to depend on oneself, fostering independence and confidence.

FAQs

How can I use "a boost of confidence" in a sentence?

You can use "a boost of confidence" to describe something that increases someone's self-assurance. For example, "Winning the award gave her "a boost of confidence" in her abilities."

What can I say instead of "a boost of confidence"?

You can use alternatives like "increased self-assurance", "enhanced self-esteem", or "a surge of self-belief" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "a boost in confidence" instead of "a boost of confidence"?

While "a boost in confidence" is understandable, ""a boost of confidence"" is the more standard and widely accepted phrasing.

What's the difference between "a boost of confidence" and "self-confidence"?

"A boost of confidence" refers to a specific instance or event that increases one's self-assurance, whereas "self-confidence" is a general trait of believing in one's own abilities and qualities.