a fine spell

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fine spell" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a pleasant or enjoyable period of time, often in the context of weather or experiences. Example: "We had a fine spell of warm weather last week, perfect for outdoor activities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The end of a fine spell from the spinner, 1-16 four four.

The Guardian - Sport

Patel decided this match with a fine spell of left-arm spin, which claimed three important wickets for 21 runs from seven overs.

The Guardian - Sport

Grains are at risk both from heavy rainfall and from drought, and this year's rain-drenched harvest was saved only by a fine spell in September.

The Guardian

Once Samit Patel had dismissed Chris Cooke, Jim Allenby and Murray Goodwin in a fine spell of spin bowling, the outcome was never in doubt.

The Guardian - Sport

Updated at 3.50pm GMT 3.44pm GMT 37th over: South Africa 68-4 (de Villiers 14, Abbott 0) That was James Pattinson's 50th Test wicket, reward for a fine spell of reverse swing at a critical time.

The Guardian - Sport

The centre-backs Sebastian Prödl and Miguel Britos add depth in a potential problem area and the playmaker José Manuel Jurado, once such a prospect at both Madrid clubs, is an interesting addition after a fine spell at Spartak Moscow.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Then, in a fine unbroken spell, Rashid had Rafatullah Mohmand stumped before bamboozling Sohaib Maqsood with a series of googlies ("You told me he bowled leg-breaks").

The Guardian - Sport

Stokes burnished his reputation further with a fine late spell to wrap up the innings but England, once again, had been Haddined.

The Guardian - Sport

It was a brave effort by the Kenyans, who at one point had been reduced to 85 for five following a fine opening spell by Mashrafe Mortaza (three for 38 off 9.2 overs), before a stand of 71 between Tanmay Mishra (48) and Collins Obuya (45) put the tourists back on track, only for Rafique to remove both of them.

The Guardian - Sport

The decision to uphold Massimo Cellino's appeal against the Football League's veto of his £25m takeover at Elland Road was received as good news after their record on the pitch was stretched to one win in 11 games by a first-half goal from Martyn Waghorn, celebrating his permanent move from Leicester City after a fine loan spell at the DW Stadium since January.

The Guardian - Sport

"Tim Murtagh and Corey Collymore produced a fine opening spell but couldn't find the breakthrough.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a fine spell" to describe a limited duration marked by positive conditions, like good weather or impressive performance, especially when you want to evoke a sense of temporary favorability.

Common error

Avoid using "a fine spell" to describe permanent or unchanging conditions. This phrase typically implies a temporary positive deviation from the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fine spell" functions as a noun phrase, where "fine" modifies the noun "spell". According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Sport

35%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a fine spell" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes a temporary period of favorable conditions or performance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s widely accepted and versatile, appearing often in news, sports, and lifestyle contexts. When writing, remember that while "a fine spell" is typically neutral in register, it's important to consider the intended audience and the specific context to ensure the most effective and clear communication. Alternative phrases include "a good period" or "a pleasant interval", offering similar meanings with subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a good period

Focuses on the generally positive nature of the duration, less specific than "a fine spell".

a pleasant interval

Emphasizes the enjoyable quality of the time, applicable to various situations not just weather or performance.

a fortunate run

Highlights the luck or good fortune associated with the period.

a successful stint

Implies a period of effective work or activity in a specific role or task.

an excellent showing

Focuses on the impressive quality of a performance or display during a specific time.

a productive phase

Highlights the output or results achieved during the period.

a remarkable stretch

Emphasizes the unusual or noteworthy nature of the duration.

a golden age

Suggests a period of great prosperity, happiness, and achievement.

a vintage performance

Implies a performance of exceptional quality, reminiscent of a classic or high point.

a purple patch

Describes a period of sustained success or good fortune, often in sports or other competitive activities.

FAQs

How can I use "a fine spell" in a sentence?

You can use "a fine spell" to describe a period of good weather, as in, "We enjoyed "a fine spell" last summer." It can also describe a period of good performance, for example, "The team had "a fine spell" in the second half."

What are some alternatives to "a fine spell"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "a good period", "a pleasant interval", or "a fortunate run".

When is it appropriate to use "a fine spell"?

"A fine spell" is suitable when describing a temporary period characterized by favorable conditions, whether in weather, performance, or another specific context.

Is "a fine spell" formal or informal?

"A fine spell" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider your audience and choose the most appropriate phrasing for clarity and impact.