a facet

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a facet" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to one aspect or side of a situation, object, or concept. Example: "One important facet of the discussion is the impact of technology on education."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Is this a facet of his personality?

The Guardian - Film

Food has become a facet of fashionable style in England.

The New York Times - Travel

Sly hostility seems to be a facet of the screenwriter Paul Rudnick's talent.

The New York Times

Each phrase was precise, considered, sculptured, like a facet of a diamond.

The New York Times - Arts

But Transneft's role in oil exports is itself a facet of the debate.

The New York Times

"It's a facet of the game we haven't looked at this way," he said.

The New York Times

"But we wanted to show a facet of America that hasn't been showcased before".

The New York Times

To the Greek citizen, it was no big deal; just a facet of (male) human desire.

The Guardian - Opinion

Sly hostility seems to be a facet of the writer Paul Rudnick's talent.

The New York Times

His name is Mike, but he is a facet of Everyman.

The Guardian

They argue among themselves - sometimes as if each were a facet of a single person.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a facet" to introduce a specific aspect or detail of a broader subject, helping to break down complex topics into manageable parts.

Common error

Avoid using "a facet" when simpler words like "aspect" or "part" would suffice. Overuse can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a facet" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status. Examples illustrate its role in identifying an aspect or feature of a subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a facet" is a versatile phrase used to denote a specific aspect or component of something larger. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, and it appears frequently in News & Media and Science contexts. When using "a facet", ensure it appropriately introduces a specific detail without sounding overly complex. Consider alternatives like "aspect" or "feature" for simpler contexts. The phrase serves to break down complex topics into manageable parts, making it suitable for both neutral and formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an aspect

Replaces "facet" with a more general term, focusing on a particular part or feature.

a component

Highlights the idea of being a constituent part of a larger whole.

an element

Emphasizes the fundamental or essential nature of the aspect.

a feature

Focuses on a distinctive attribute or characteristic.

a side

Suggests one particular angle or perspective of something.

a dimension

Highlights the measurable or quantifiable aspect of something.

a characteristic

Emphasizes a specific trait or quality.

a part

Indicates a portion or segment of something.

an angle

Focuses on a specific viewpoint or perspective.

a consideration

Highlights the importance of a particular factor.

FAQs

How can I use "a facet" in a sentence?

Use "a facet" to introduce a specific aspect of something. For example, "One facet of the problem is the lack of funding."

What can I say instead of "a facet"?

You can use alternatives like "an aspect", "a component", or "a feature" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say 'the facet' instead of "a facet"?

Using "the facet" implies you are referring to a specific, previously mentioned aspect. "A facet" introduces a new, unspecified aspect. For example, "A facet of her personality is her kindness."

What's the difference between "a facet" and "an element"?

"A facet" generally refers to one side or aspect of something, whereas "an element" often suggests a fundamental or essential component.