a la mode

USAGE SUMMARY

"a la mode" is correct and usable in written English.
It is French and translates to "in the latest fashion/style." Example: I ordered the apple pie a la mode for dessert.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

A la Mode Ice Cream Shoppe in midtown, Manhattan.

Forbes

A la mode received praise as a good continuation of the series, but was also criticized for offering nothing new.

Wikipedia

Marriage a la mode.

Yale University

2. Marriage a la mode.

Yale University

5. Marriage a la mode.

Yale University

6. Marriage a la mode.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

I recommend pecan during the season--a la mode.

Los Angeles Times

3. Marriage a-la-mode.

Yale University

7. Marriage a-la-mode.

Yale University

8. Marriage a-la-mode.

Yale University

; Merke sculp. 5. Marriage a-la-mode.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing food, use "a la mode" to clearly indicate that the dish is served with ice cream. For instance, "apple pie a la mode" leaves no room for misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "a la mode" solely to describe food when you intend to convey something is fashionable. This can confuse your audience; instead, use "in fashion" or "trendy" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a la mode" is as an adverbial phrase, modifying a noun or verb to indicate a particular style or serving method. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a la mode" is a versatile phrase primarily used to denote either that something is fashionable or that a dish is served with ice cream. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Its frequency is common, with noticeable appearances in news and media, academia and wiki sources. To avoid confusion, ensure context clarifies whether you're discussing style or food. For fashion-related contexts, simpler English alternatives like "trendy" or "in fashion" may be preferred for enhanced clarity. If you're looking for clarity on the best approach in a sentence using this phrase, rely on the examples Ludwig provides.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in fashion

Replaces the French phrase with a simpler English equivalent for describing something trendy.

fashionable

A single-word adjective that conveys the same meaning as "a la mode" in terms of style.

with ice cream

Specifically refers to the serving style, omitting the general sense of fashionableness.

in the latest style

A more descriptive alternative for conveying trendiness.

up-to-date

Focuses on being current, similar to the fashionable sense of "a la mode".

trendy

A common synonym for "fashionable", suitable for informal contexts.

modish

A more formal synonym for "fashionable".

stylish

Emphasizes elegance and flair, similar to being "a la mode".

current

Highlights being up-to-date with trends.

voguish

Another synonym that stresses the popularity and trendiness.

FAQs

How to use "a la mode" in a sentence?

You can use "a la mode" to describe something that is fashionable, like "That style is very "a la mode" this season". It can also describe food served with ice cream, like "I'll have the pie "a la mode"".

What's the difference between "a la mode" and "fashionable"?

"A la mode" can mean "fashionable" but also describes food served with ice cream. "Fashionable" solely refers to being in current style; it does not apply to food.

What can I say instead of "a la mode" (fashion sense)?

You can use alternatives like "in fashion", "trendy", or "stylish" depending on the context.

Is "a la mode" formal or informal?

"A la mode" is generally considered neutral in tone. While it's a French phrase, it's commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, especially when referring to food. For describing fashion, simpler English terms might be preferred in very formal settings.