a highlight

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a highlight" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something particularly interesting or noteworthy in a particular situation. For example, "The highlight of the evening was when we got to watch a special fireworks display over the river."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A highlight.

Independent

That was a highlight.

The New York Times

Desserts were a highlight.

The New York Times

A highlight is TALK.

The Economist

Flores was a highlight.

The Guardian - Travel

A highlight is magnificent Dryburgh Abbey.

Independent

The race has become a highlight here.

The New York Times - Sports

The Champagne region was a highlight.

Independent

Peel & Stone is a highlight.

The Guardian - Travel

A highlight was the Lutoslawski.

The New York Times - Arts

The house-made desserts are a highlight.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a highlight" to draw attention to specific positive aspects of a situation, event, or creation. For variety, consider synonyms like "standout feature" or "key moment" to avoid repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "a highlight" to describe negative situations. This phrase is inherently positive; instead, use terms like "low point" or "challenge" to accurately depict negative experiences.

Linguistic Context

A highlight functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig shows its use to denote a particularly interesting, enjoyable, or successful part of an event, experience, or item. For example, "The Champagne region was a highlight" or "Desserts were a highlight".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a highlight" is a versatile and commonly used phrase to denote something particularly positive or memorable. It's grammatically sound, according to Ludwig, and widely accepted across various contexts, primarily in news and media. When writing, use "a highlight" to emphasize the best parts of a situation, event, or item and consider synonyms like "key moment" or "standout feature" for variety. Avoid using it in negative contexts and ensure it accurately reflects the positive nature of what you're describing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a high point

A more direct synonym, referring to the peak or most positive part.

the best part

Simply identifies the most enjoyable or successful aspect.

a standout feature

Emphasizes a particular characteristic that excels above others.

a key moment

Focuses on a specific point in time that is of great importance.

a noteworthy aspect

Highlights a part that deserves attention or is significant.

a remarkable element

Indicates a component that is worth noting for its unusual qualities.

a memorable part

Indicates a section that is likely to be remembered.

a significant event

Emphasizes the importance and impact of a particular occurrence.

an exceptional instance

Points out a case that is above the ordinary or expected.

a crowning achievement

Highlights a culminating success or top accomplishment.

FAQs

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

You can use "a highlight" to point out something positive and noteworthy. For example, "The concert's "standout feature" was the guitarist's solo" or "A key moment of the trip was seeing the Eiffel Tower at night".

What are some alternatives to using "a highlight"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "key moment", "standout feature", or "high point" as alternatives to "a highlight".

Is it correct to say "the highlight" instead of "a highlight"?

Both "a highlight" and "the highlight" are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "A highlight" refers to one of many notable aspects, while "the highlight" refers to the single most important or memorable aspect.

Can "a highlight" be used in a negative context?

No, "a highlight" is generally used in positive contexts to describe something particularly enjoyable or successful. If you want to describe a negative point, consider using "lowlight" or "low point".