a marvelous gesture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a marvelous gesture" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an action that is particularly kind, thoughtful, or impressive. Example: "Her decision to donate to the charity was truly a marvelous gesture that inspired others to contribute as well."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Mr. Jimenez — a somewhat Dickensian figure, with his substantial frame; long, graying sideburns; and brown suit — can make a marvelous gesture out of just a couple of claps.

The New York Times - Arts

I suggest, furthermore, that at the time of the boy's departure, it would be a marvelous gesture for either Attorney General Janet Reno or Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright to announce that a full, four-year scholarship to any of this country's premier universities will be made available to him as a young adult.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Make a grand gesture.

WikiHow

The curators have brought together the work of art-world insiders like Mr. Nozkowski, Ms. Murray, Carroll Dunham, Joanne Greenbaum and Jeff Way with that of unschooled outsiders like the astonishing Chelo Amezcua, master of what she, with good reason, called "filigree art," and Ray Hamilton, whose self-portrait of his stockinged feet is a marvelous "I was here" gesture.

The New York Times - Arts

So Carolyn, who lives locally, and her stepmom, who was visiting from Florida, came just to show me the images — a thoughtful gesture and a marvelous surprise.

Los Angeles Times

Most of the men come running onstage and then stop with a marvelous chugging hop-skip and bend, but Brandon Collwes enters with a quietly grand "hail" gesture.

The New York Times - Arts

A marvelous performance.

The New York Times - Arts

What a marvelous profile.

The New York Times - Magazine

a marvelous book.

The New York Times - Books

A marvelous book.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

A marvelous little moment.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a marvelous gesture" to describe actions that are both thoughtful and significant, showing deep appreciation or admiration for the person or group responsible.

Common error

While "a marvelous gesture" is appropriate in formal writing, it may sound overly theatrical in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a kind act" or "a nice thing to do" in everyday scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a marvelous gesture" functions as a noun phrase, with "marvelous" modifying the noun "gesture". Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a marvelous gesture" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey admiration or approval for an action. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the expression is correct and suitable for written English. It appears mostly in News & Media, with a slightly formal tone. While effective, remember that simpler alternatives may be more appropriate in informal contexts. Consider it for actions that are exceptionally kind, thoughtful, or impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a gesture of goodwill

Focuses on the positive intentions behind the action, often aimed at improving relations.

a wonderful action

Expresses a sense of delight and appreciation for what was done.

a truly generous act

Specifically highlights the act's characteristic of being giving or unselfish.

an excellent deed

Emphasizes the moral quality of the action; focuses on it being a 'good' thing to do.

a splendid act

Highlights the impressive and dignified nature of the action.

an exceptional demonstration

Focuses on the action as a clear display of a positive quality or intent.

a thoughtful kindness

Underlines the care and consideration behind the action.

a remarkable display

Stresses that the act is worthy of attention due to its unusual nature.

a significant contribution

Emphasizes the positive impact or importance of the action.

an impressive feat

Highlights skill and accomplishment, suggesting it was something difficult to achieve.

FAQs

How can I use "a marvelous gesture" in a sentence?

You can use "a marvelous gesture" to describe an action that is particularly kind, thoughtful, or impressive. For example, "Her decision to volunteer her time was "a marvelous gesture" that inspired others to get involved."

What's a more straightforward way to say "a marvelous gesture"?

Alternatives include "a kind act", "a thoughtful deed", or "a generous action", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What kind of actions warrant being called "a marvelous gesture"?

This phrase is best reserved for actions that go above and beyond normal expectations of kindness or generosity, demonstrating significant thoughtfulness or selflessness. Consider it for actions that leave a lasting positive impact.

Is "marvelous" the same as "wonderful" in "a marvelous gesture"?

While similar, "marvelous" implies a sense of awe or exceptional quality, whereas "wonderful" is a more general term of approval. "A marvelous gesture" suggests the act was particularly impressive or delightful, more so than just "a wonderful gesture" might indicate.