a degree of consolation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a degree of consolation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a certain level of comfort or relief in a difficult situation. Example: "After the loss of her pet, she found a degree of consolation in the support of her friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The mighty mare polled 128 votes to Blame's 102 to give owner Jerry Moss and trainer John Shirreffs a degree of consolation for her near-miss in achieving statistical perfection.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Sure there's a degree of comfort that comes with knowing that smart and successful people share certain labels with you, but such labels offer little insight into the human condition, and rarely provide more than momentary consolation.

Huffington Post

A degree of secrecy was a must.

The New York Times

Mr. Fowler found a ray of consolation.

The New York Times

A word of consolation, though, from soul diva Beverly Knight.

Independent

At last a straw of consolation for England.

The Guardian - Sport

Not a lot of consolation after being ridiculed in a national newspaper.

Independent

You could therefore call this altarpiece a species of consolation to the faithful.

Independent

Had their disappointment made them dwell on the past, as a kind of consolation?

The New Yorker

But the masterful final story, "The Burgundy Weekend", offers a glimmer of consolation.

Independent

Perhaps the Art Deco bestiary was a form of consolation for that loss.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a degree of consolation", ensure that the context clearly establishes the source and nature of the consolation. Specify what provides the comfort or relief.

Common error

Avoid using "a degree of consolation" when the situation warrants a stronger expression of comfort. This phrase suggests a limited or partial easing of distress, so it should not be used if the person or situation experiences substantial relief.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a degree of consolation" functions as a noun phrase, specifically indicating the extent or amount of comfort received. It modifies an implied or stated subject by attributing to it a limited level of relief. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is 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, the phrase "a degree of consolation" is a grammatically correct expression used to indicate a limited or partial amount of comfort received in a difficult situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English, though its usage is relatively rare. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, this phrase serves to acknowledge suffering while pointing out that some measure of relief exists. Consider alternatives like "a measure of solace" or "a hint of comfort" for nuanced expression. When employing this phrase, ensure the context specifies the source of the comfort. Avoid overstating the level of relief; "a degree of consolation" implies the distress is not fully resolved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a measure of solace

Replaces "consolation" with "solace" and "degree" with "measure", both suggesting partial relief.

a hint of comfort

Substitutes "degree" with "hint" and "consolation" with "comfort", indicating a slight easing of distress.

some small comfort

Replaces "degree" with "some" and "consolation" with "comfort", emphasizing the limited nature of the relief.

a modicum of relief

Uses "modicum" instead of "degree" and "relief" instead of "consolation", both conveying a small amount of easing.

a touch of reassurance

Replaces "consolation" with "reassurance", focusing on the aspect of feeling secure or confident again.

a shade of encouragement

Substitutes "consolation" with "encouragement", highlighting the aspect of renewed hope or motivation.

a whisper of hope

Emphasizes the faint and delicate nature of the consolation received.

a small piece of mind

Indicates a slight reduction in worry or anxiety.

a ray of optimism

Shifts the focus towards a positive outlook, suggesting a limited but present sense of hope.

a silver lining

Implies finding something positive in a negative situation, providing a small amount of comfort.

FAQs

How can I use "a degree of consolation" in a sentence?

You can use "a degree of consolation" to express a partial or limited amount of comfort received in a difficult situation. For example: "Losing the game was disappointing, but the team found "a degree of consolation" in knowing they played their best."

What are some alternatives to "a degree of consolation"?

Alternatives to "a degree of consolation" include phrases like "a measure of solace", "a hint of comfort", or "some small comfort", depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a degree of consolation" in formal writing?

Yes, "a degree of consolation" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when precision is needed to indicate the limited extent of comfort or relief. However, consider the tone and audience, as more direct or emphatic language may be suitable in some contexts.

What's the difference between "a degree of consolation" and "complete consolation"?

"A degree of consolation" implies partial or limited comfort, whereas "complete consolation" suggests a full and total alleviation of distress. The former acknowledges ongoing sadness or difficulty, while the latter suggests a resolution or full recovery.