a capricious comparison

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a capricious comparison" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a comparison that is unpredictable or subject to change, often without a clear reason. Example: "The author's use of a capricious comparison between the two characters highlights the unpredictability of their relationship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This is not a capricious comparison.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A capricious tyrant?

The Guardian - Books

History, however, can be a capricious mistress.

Independent

It's a capricious process.

The Guardian - Books

Posterity is a capricious thing.

The Guardian - Books

"This law is not a capricious law.

The Economist

She has been a capricious concubine.

The New York Times

It's such a capricious game.

The Guardian - Film

To them, a ban on Mr Qaradawi would be a capricious, even provocative gesture.

The Economist

It's been a capricious month for awards.

The New York Times

"I'm at the whim of a capricious God".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a capricious comparison" when you want to emphasize the unpredictable or seemingly random nature of the comparison being made. This can add a touch of stylistic flair and highlight the unexpected connection between the items being compared.

Common error

Avoid using "a capricious comparison" when you intend to convey a well-reasoned or logical comparison. The term 'capricious' implies a lack of reason or predictability, which is the opposite of a carefully considered analogy.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a capricious comparison" is that of a noun phrase, where 'capricious' acts as an adjective modifying the noun 'comparison'. According to Ludwig, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a capricious comparison" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a comparison that is unpredictable or whimsical. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While relatively rare in occurrence, its meaning is clear and can be effectively used to add stylistic flair to writing. Alternatives such as ""an arbitrary comparison"" or ""a whimsical comparison"" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Remember to use this phrase when you want to emphasize the unexpected or seemingly random nature of the comparison.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an arbitrary comparison

Emphasizes the lack of a clear reason or system behind the comparison.

a whimsical comparison

Highlights the playful and fanciful nature of the comparison.

an unpredictable comparison

Focuses on the uncertain and changeable quality of the comparison.

a fickle comparison

Suggests the comparison is likely to change or be abandoned easily.

an erratic comparison

Implies the comparison lacks consistency and follows no set pattern.

a chance comparison

Highlights that the comparison occurs randomly or by accident.

a random comparison

Stresses the absence of any specific reason or connection in the comparison.

an impulsive comparison

Suggests the comparison was made without careful thought or planning.

an inconsistent comparison

Focuses on the lack of agreement or harmony within the comparison itself.

a variable comparison

Indicates that the comparison is subject to change and not fixed.

FAQs

How can I use "a capricious comparison" in a sentence?

You can use "a capricious comparison" to describe a comparison that seems random, whimsical, or unpredictable. For example, "The author's use of "a capricious comparison" between the two characters highlights the unpredictable nature of their relationship."

What are some alternatives to "a capricious comparison"?

Alternatives to "a capricious comparison" include "an arbitrary comparison", "a whimsical comparison", or "an unpredictable comparison". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a capricious comparison"?

It's appropriate to use "a capricious comparison" when you want to emphasize the lack of a clear or logical basis for the comparison, suggesting that it's based more on whim or fancy than on reason.

What does 'capricious' mean in the context of "a capricious comparison"?

In this context, 'capricious' means unpredictable, whimsical, or acting on impulse. It suggests that the comparison is not based on a consistent or logical rationale, but rather on a sudden inclination or change of mind.