a dash of something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dash of something" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a small amount of an ingredient or quality added to enhance something, often in cooking or metaphorically in writing. Example: "The recipe calls for a dash of salt to bring out the flavors of the dish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Suddenly, there was no need to flavor the free market with a dash of something else.

The New York Times - Magazine

Until now I've always suspected that for a holiday truly to work its fullest magic, it requires a dash of something ancient – maybe a monastery bell obligingly chiming on a far-off hilltop – or something intensely and life-affirmingly natural, like crashing waves or the scent of orange-blossom wafting in.

Independent

I love to make a blood orange spritz with a dash of something bitter while they are in season.

Forbes

Since Caroline successfully stirred Melissa's pot the night before, it's time to head over to Jacqueline's because she needs a dash of something vomit-inducing.

Huffington Post

Adding a dash of something pretty and a dollop of something twisted, Stoller comments on the contradictions embedded in effortless femininity.

Huffington Post

James' latest is a twisting techno trek through dark, ominous synths, a relentlessly upbeat and groovy beat, and a dash of something eerie, mystical or transcendental all hallmarks of a Minus release.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Campaigns, even the most contentious ones, usually contain a dash of uplift, something to make voters feel good about putting a check mark in the box.

Vice

Not only does it add a dash of mistrust of Jim (something he has not earned), but it also pits me again other women.

Huffington Post

With some fruit juice and a dash of brandy, he has created something that makes it possible for you to have three or four of them and just feel the pleasantest hint of relaxation". In truth, they were stronger than the strongest and driest stinger). "Our lunch always began with a festive air but usually ended back at the hotel in an atmosphere of heartbreak or horrifying recrimination.

The New York Times - Magazine

Better to use humble materials with a dash of ingenuity, than to do something aspirational.

HuffPost

If there is something unpredictable, a dash of impatience, in the angle at which she confronts the world, so much the better: a rose without thorns is a drag.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a dash of something" to add subtle qualities or flavors without overpowering the main element. For example, "Add a dash of humor to your presentation to keep the audience engaged."

Common error

Avoid using "a dash of something" excessively in your writing, as it can become repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives like "a hint of something" or "a touch of something" to maintain reader interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dash of something" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating a small quantity of an attribute or ingredient added to enhance or subtly alter something. As shown in Ludwig, it's commonly used to express nuanced enhancements.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a dash of something" is a grammatically sound and generally accepted phrase used to indicate a small amount of an attribute or ingredient. Ludwig AI categorizes its usage as correct, with examples spanning across various contexts, particularly news and media. Alternatives such as "a hint of something" or "a touch of something" can be used for variety. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to opt for more precise language in formal settings. The phrase is more frequent in news and media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hint of something

Replaces "dash" with "hint", softening the intensity of the addition.

a touch of something

Substitutes "dash" with "touch", emphasizing a delicate addition.

a little bit of something

Uses a more general term to indicate a small amount.

a taste of something

Emphasizes the sensory experience of the addition.

a speck of something

Highlights the extremely small quantity being added.

a drop of something

Specifies the addition in liquid form.

a shade of something

Indicates a subtle variation or influence.

a whisper of something

Emphasizes the faintness and subtlety of the addition.

a trace of something

Suggests a minimal and almost undetectable amount.

an element of something

Shifts the focus to a component rather than quantity.

FAQs

How can I use "a dash of something" in a sentence?

You can use "a dash of something" to indicate a small amount of an ingredient or quality added to enhance something. For example, "The chef added "a dash of salt" to enhance the flavor of the soup."

What's a good substitute for "a dash of something"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a hint of something", "a touch of something", or "a little bit of something" depending on the desired nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "a dash of something" in formal writing?

While "a dash of something" is generally acceptable, consider using more precise language in formal contexts. For example, instead of "a dash of enthusiasm", you might say "a modicum of enthusiasm".

What does "a dash of something" imply about the quantity being added?

"A dash of something" implies a very small, almost negligible quantity, added to subtly enhance or modify the primary element.