a brush of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a brush of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a light touch or a slight application of something, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "She felt a brush of warmth as the sun peeked through the clouds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Every phrase gets a brush of lacquer.

The New Yorker

When in Scotland he gave his voice a brush of young Lochinvar.

The Guardian

Roll up the pastry and seal with a brush of egg.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A flap is a brush of the foot against the floor.

The New Yorker

Salvador Dali leapt from his chair to smack a brush of paint on a canvas.

The Economist

Granit Xhaka tangled with Allen as they contested a 50-50 band and Xhaka caught Allen with a brush of an elbow.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

The whole branzini and whole brook trout came char-grilled after a brushing of olive oil, salt and black pepper.

The New York Times - Travel

A brushing of egg white will give the final crust a nice sheen, and a brushing of beaten whole egg will give both color and sheen.

Los Angeles Times

A brushing of egg white will do the job, and a brushing of beaten whole egg will provide both color and sheen.

Los Angeles Times

In fact, any kind of physical relationship between a man and a woman a brush of hands, a hug, especially a kiss was strictly forbidden and immediately edited out.

Vice

There was also a time that a random brush of the keyboard wouldn't trigger Siri.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a brush of" to convey a subtle or delicate application, influence, or presence of something. It's effective when describing sensory experiences (like "a brush of wind") or intangible qualities (like "a brush of sadness").

Common error

While versatile, "a brush of" can sound too informal in highly formal or scientific writing. Opt for more precise language like "a slight trace" or "a subtle indication" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a brush of" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun. It indicates a light or subtle application, contact, or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

18%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a brush of" is a grammatically sound phrase that effectively conveys a subtle or delicate application, influence, or presence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's most commonly found in news and media, but it also appears in scientific and informal contexts. When using "a brush of", consider the level of formality required and ensure it aligns with the desired tone of your writing. Alternatives such as "a touch of" or "a hint of" can provide similar meaning with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a touch of

Replaces "brush" with "touch", emphasizing a light contact or influence.

a hint of

Substitutes "brush" with "hint", focusing on a subtle indication or suggestion.

a trace of

Replaces "brush" with "trace", highlighting a barely perceptible amount or sign.

a dab of

Substitutes "brush" with "dab", emphasizing a small amount applied lightly.

a suggestion of

Replaces "brush" with "suggestion", focusing on a subtle indication or impression.

a glimmer of

Substitutes "brush" with "glimmer", emphasizing a faint or fleeting sign.

a shade of

Replaces "brush" with "shade", highlighting a slight variation or degree.

a whisper of

Substitutes "brush" with "whisper", emphasizing a very faint or subtle presence.

a film of

Replaces "brush" with "film", highlighting a thin layer or coating.

a dusting of

Substitutes "brush" with "dusting", emphasizing a light scattering or application.

FAQs

How can I use "a brush of" in a sentence?

Use "a brush of" to describe a light touch, a hint, or a small amount of something. For example, "She felt a brush of cold air as she opened the window" or "The painting had a brush of red in the corner".

What can I say instead of "a brush of"?

You can use alternatives like "a touch of", "a hint of", or "a trace of" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a brush of" in writing?

It's suitable when you want to convey a subtle or delicate application or presence. It works well in descriptive writing or when discussing sensory experiences or emotional nuances.

Is there a difference between "a brush of" and "a stroke of"?

"A brush of" implies a light, gentle touch or a small amount, whereas "a stroke of" suggests a more deliberate or significant action or event. The choice depends on the degree of emphasis you want to convey.