a frequent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a frequent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that occurs often or regularly. Example: "She is a frequent visitor to the local library, often spending hours reading."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You're a frequent karaoke performer.

The New Yorker

Author is a frequent customer.

The New Yorker

This is a frequent error.

The New York Times

A frequent topic of conversation….

The New Yorker

It is a frequent sound.

The New York Times

You're a frequent business traveler.

The Economist

"I am a frequent traveller.

Independent

I'm a frequent flier".

The New York Times

Spraying for cockroaches is a frequent chore.

The New York Times

The staff reshuffle is a frequent resort.

The New Yorker

Do you cook, is a frequent question.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a frequent", ensure the noun it modifies clearly indicates what is occurring often. For example, "a frequent problem" is clearer than just "a frequent."

Common error

Avoid using "a frequent" with uncountable nouns. It's more appropriate to use "frequent" without the article "a" or rephrase the sentence. For instance, instead of "a frequent traffic", use "frequent traffic" or "heavy traffic."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a frequent" functions as a determiner and adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that something occurs often or regularly. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

13%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a frequent" is a grammatically sound and versatile adjective phrase used to indicate that something occurs often or regularly. As stated by Ludwig AI, its usage is valid and the phrase is widely found in various contexts, particularly within news and media, academia and science. When writing, ensure that "a frequent" is paired with a countable noun and that the intended meaning is clear. Alternatives such as "a common" or "a regular" can be used for similar effect. Remember that its register is neutral, making it appropriate for diverse writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a common

This alternative implies something is typical and regularly encountered.

a regular

Similar to "a frequent", this suggests something occurs at consistent intervals.

a prevalent

This alternative suggests widespread occurrence or acceptance.

an often

This option uses an adverb to indicate the frequency of something.

a recurring

Implies that something happens repeatedly.

a repeated

This highlights the act of something being done again.

a habitual

Indicates something is done out of habit or routine.

a usual

Suggests something is typical and expected.

a persistent

This implies a continuing or lasting occurrence.

a commonplace

Highlights that something is ordinary and unremarkable.

FAQs

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

Use "a frequent" to describe something that occurs often or regularly. For example, "He is "a frequent visitor" to the museum", or "Rain is "a frequent occurrence" in this region".

What can I say instead of "a frequent"?

You can use alternatives like "a common", "a regular", or "an often" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a frequent occurrence" or "frequent occurrence"?

"A frequent occurrence" is generally used when referring to a specific instance of something happening often. "Frequent occurrence" is more general, referring to the overall tendency of something to happen often.

What's the difference between "a frequent" and "a common"?

While both indicate something happens often, "a frequent" emphasizes the repetition or regularity of the occurrence, whereas "a common" emphasizes the ordinariness or widespread nature of it.