a menu item

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a menu item" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific dish or option available on a menu in a restaurant or food service context. Example: "The chef recommended the grilled salmon as a menu item that pairs well with the house salad."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Want to highlight a menu item?

The New York Times - Tech

A menu item called toro taru taru seemed similar.

The New York Times

(We ordered them blackened, from a menu item labeled Blackened Anything).

The New York Times

Crosswords are available as a menu item, or by swiping through the sections of the app.

The Guardian

Leave your hand-controlled pointer on a menu item for a few seconds, and it opens.

The New York Times - Arts

If a menu item is marked with one chili pepper, it is hot; if it has two, watch out.

The New York Times

Q. Apple Photos has a menu item for Extensions in the Edit window, but it seems to be empty.

The New York Times - Tech

Healthy fast food has also not done well as a menu item in mainstream fast-food restaurants.

The New York Times

"If I'm paying for a menu item," Mr. Washington said, "I'm expecting that menu item to be placed before me".

The New York Times

Monotheism's major religious texts have few kind words for dogs, and dogs have often been a menu item.

The New York Times - Science

More than a menu item, too, the carrot is symbolic of Moosally's past life as a lawyer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical documentation, specify the exact location of the menu item within the software interface to help users easily find it.

Common error

Avoid using "a menu item" excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for more natural alternatives like "dish", "option", or the specific name of the item.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a menu item" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific selection or offering within a restaurant's or software program's list of options. Ludwig's examples show it used to denote dishes, features, or commands.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

23%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a menu item" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to a specific dish, option, or feature available on a menu or in a software interface. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It is most frequently used in news and media contexts, followed by scientific and wiki sources. When writing, it's beneficial to use more specific language when possible, like "chef's special". Although the phrase is versatile, consider alternatives like "dish on the menu" or "an option on the menu" for variety and clarity. While suitable for various contexts, it may be best to avoid overuse in overly casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dish on the menu

Replaces "item" with a more specific term, focusing on food.

an option on the menu

Emphasizes the element of choice or selection.

a selection on the menu

Highlights the act of choosing from available options.

a listing on the menu

Focuses on the item as part of a list or inventory.

a choice from the menu

Similar to "option", but emphasizes the decision-making process.

an entry on the menu

Formal and emphasizes the item's presence within the menu structure.

a feature in the software

Shifts the context to software, replacing "menu" with "software".

a command in the application

Highlights the item as an instruction within a software program.

a function in the program

Emphasizes the operational aspect of the item in a software context.

a component of the system

Broader term, referring to the item as part of a larger system or structure.

FAQs

How can I use "a menu item" in a sentence?

You can use "a menu item" to refer to a specific dish or feature available on a menu. For example, "The server recommended the chef's special as "a menu item" to try".

What are some alternatives to "a menu item"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a dish on the menu", "an option on the menu", or the name of the specific dish.

Is it correct to say "menu item" or "item on the menu"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a menu item" is generally more concise and commonly used. "Item on the menu" is also acceptable but can sound slightly more formal or descriptive.

What is the difference between "a menu item" and "a special"?

"A menu item" refers to any dish or option listed on the regular menu. "A special" typically refers to a dish that is not regularly on the menu, often offered for a limited time or on specific days.