a great find

USAGE SUMMARY

"a great find" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to emphasize positive discovery or uncovering of something. For example, "He was ecstatic about his great find - a rare first edition of the book."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Books

Real Estate

Sports

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

"It was a great find".

The New York Times

He's a great find.

The Guardian

"It was a great find," Raybourn said.

The New York Times - Sports

"A great find," Portland Coach Mike Dunleavy said.

The New York Times - Sports

James Conlon was a great find as the conductor.

The Guardian

"Embedded" I have to admit, is a great find.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

(PDF) What makes a great found poem?

The New York Times

In addition, keep in mind that you need only one great Times article to create a great found poem.

The New York Times

Wajda is sometimes called a cinematic poet of lost causes: but he made Poland and Polish cinema a great found cause.

The Guardian - Film

A great hotel find for around 200 euros/night.

The New York Times - Travel

Great find.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a great find" to describe something you've discovered that offers significant benefit, value, or enjoyment. For instance, "This vintage guitar was a great find at the flea market."

Common error

While "a great find" is acceptable in many situations, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "remarkable discovery" or "valuable acquisition" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a great find" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or object complement. It describes something that has been discovered or obtained and is considered to be of high value or quality. This is supported by Ludwig which confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Travel

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a great find" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe something valuable or beneficial that has been discovered. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's a versatile expression suitable for various contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferred in academic writing. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources, travel writing, and formal business contexts. When using "a great find", ensure it accurately reflects the positive value or benefit of the discovered item or person.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wonderful discovery

Emphasizes the positive nature of uncovering something new.

a remarkable discovery

Highlights the unusual or noteworthy quality of the finding.

an excellent acquisition

Focuses on the act of gaining something valuable.

a superb acquisition

Similar to "excellent acquisition" but conveys a higher degree of quality.

a lucky discovery

Combines the elements of fortune and discovery.

a treasure

Implies that the finding is highly cherished and valuable.

a valuable asset

Indicates the usefulness and worth of the finding.

a gem

Suggests that the finding is rare and beautiful.

a prized possession

Shifts the focus to the value and importance of the item found.

a stroke of luck

Highlights the fortunate circumstances surrounding the finding.

FAQs

How can I use "a great find" in a sentence?

You can use "a great find" to describe something valuable you've discovered. For example, "This apartment is "a great find" because it's spacious and affordable."

What's a more formal alternative to "a great find"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "remarkable discovery", "valuable asset", or "excellent acquisition" instead of "a great find".

Is it appropriate to use "a great find" in academic writing?

While not strictly incorrect, "a great find" might be too informal for academic writing. Consider using more precise and scholarly terms depending on the specific field and context.

What is the difference between "a great find" and "a good find"?

"A great find" implies something exceptionally valuable or beneficial, while "a good find" simply suggests something satisfactory or useful. The former carries a stronger sense of positive surprise and delight.