a dollop of

USAGE SUMMARY

"a dollop of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an amount of a substance, usually a soft or wet one, that is of an indeterminate shape and size. For example: She added a dollop of cream to the top of the cake.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Lifestyle

Food

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And a dollop of patience.

The New York Times

Then he offered a dollop of advice.

The New York Times

Serve with a dollop of tomato sauce.

The New York Times - Health

Sure, there's a dollop of envy.

The New York Times

A dollop of white privilege.

The Guardian

Last week dawned with a dollop of hope.

The New York Times - Sports

Then add a dollop of cheese.

The Guardian - Music

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

The New York Times - Food

Serve with a dollop of yoghurt.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Is a dollop of status so bad?

The New York Times

Serve with a dollop of creamy mascarpone.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a dollop of" to add a touch of informality and visual appeal to your writing, especially when describing food or adding a figurative touch to abstract concepts. For example, "a dollop of hope" can make the sentiment more relatable.

Common error

While versatile, using "a dollop of" too often in formal or professional writing can make your tone seem less serious. Opt for more precise language like "a small amount of" or "a measure of" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the phrase "a dollop of" is that of a quantifier, specifying an indefinite, small amount. It modifies a noun, indicating a portion or serving, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples like "a dollop of whipped cream" or, more abstractly, "a dollop of hope".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Lifestyle

15%

Less common in

Food

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a dollop of" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe a small, indefinite amount, often of a semi-solid substance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. While frequently found in contexts like News & Media, Wiki, Lifestyle, and Food, it's important to consider the register and avoid overuse in strictly formal settings. As Ludwig's examples showcase, this phrase is not only practical for culinary descriptions but also adds a touch of informality and visual appeal to abstract concepts, such as "a dollop of hope".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dab of

Focuses more on a light touch or application rather than a rounded mass.

a spoonful of

Specifies the amount more clearly using a common kitchen measure.

a touch of

Emphasizes a slight addition, often used for intangible qualities.

a bit of

Is a more general term for a small quantity and applicable in broader contexts.

a splash of

Implies a liquid addition rather than a solid or semi-solid.

a hint of

Suggests a subtle presence, often used for flavors or scents.

a smidgen of

Conveys a very small, almost negligible amount in an informal way.

a small amount of

Is a more descriptive and less idiomatic way to express a small quantity.

a modicum of

Implies a limited or moderate quantity, often used in formal contexts.

a speck of

Suggests an extremely tiny amount, often a particle or trace.

FAQs

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

You can use "a dollop of" to describe a small, often rounded amount of something, especially food items like "a dollop of sour cream" or metaphorically, such as "a dollop of patience".

What phrases are similar to "a dollop of"?

Alternatives include "a dab of", "a spoonful of", or "a touch of", each varying slightly in nuance.

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

While generally acceptable, "a dollop of" might be considered too informal for strictly professional or academic contexts. Consider using phrases like "a small quantity of" instead.

What's the difference between "a dollop of" and "a splash of"?

"A dollop of" typically refers to a semi-solid substance, while "a splash of" implies a liquid. For example, you'd add "a dollop of sour cream", but "a splash of juice".