a mobile

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a mobile" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to refer to a mobile phone or cellular device. Example: She reached into her purse and pulled out a mobile to call her friend.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Reading on a mobile?

The Guardian - Music

A mobile app?

The New York Times - Tech

Me: A mobile phone.

The Guardian

A mobile version is planned.

The New York Times

TRUCK FARM A mobile farm.

The New York Times - Food

Reading this on a mobile?

The Guardian - Film

Veanne Cox bought a mobile.

The New York Times

They're not a mobile business.

The New York Times

Watching on a mobile?

The Guardian - Film

A mobile phone rings.

The New York Times - Tech

A mobile messaging app.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a specific mobile phone, consider specifying the brand or model for clarity.

Common error

Ensure the context makes it clear you are referring to a mobile phone and not another type of "mobile" item such as a "mobile" library or "mobile" home.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mobile" typically functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig provides examples where it refers to a mobile phone or device. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a mobile" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to a mobile phone or device. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples of its use in diverse contexts. Its frequency is very common, especially in News & Media and Wiki sources. When using the phrase, consider the context to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity, perhaps by specifying the type of mobile or its brand. Alternative phrases include "a cell phone" or "a smartphone", depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a mobile telephone

A more formal way of saying "a mobile".

a cell phone

Replaces 'mobile' with 'cell phone', a common alternative term.

a smartphone

Specifies the type of mobile phone as a 'smartphone'.

a portable phone

Emphasizes the portability aspect of the phone.

a wireless device

Focuses on the wireless connectivity of the device.

a handheld device

Highlights the size and ease of holding the device.

a cellular telephone

Uses the more formal term 'cellular telephone'.

a portable gadget

Replaces 'phone' with the more general term 'gadget'.

a movable contraption

Uses 'contraption' to suggest a more complex or novel device.

a pocket computer

Emphasizes the computer-like functionality of a modern mobile phone.

FAQs

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

You can use "a mobile" when referring to a mobile phone, as in "She checked her email on "her mobile"".

What's a more specific term than "a mobile"?

Depending on the context, you could use more specific terms like "a smartphone", "a cell phone", or even the specific brand and model of the phone.

Is it correct to say "a mobile phone"?

Yes, "a mobile phone" is perfectly correct and more explicit than just saying "a mobile", ensuring clarity.

What's the difference between "a mobile" and "a wireless device"?

"A mobile" usually refers specifically to a mobile phone, while "a wireless device" is a broader term that can include other devices like tablets or wireless headphones.