a novelty thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a novelty thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an item or concept that is new, unusual, or interesting, often in a playful or lighthearted context. Example: "The store is filled with a variety of gadgets, but this one is truly a novelty thing that caught my eye."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Reflecting on their day, Ms. Mann said: "It wasn't a novelty thing.

The New York Times - Style

Mr. Pierotti resumed hardtack production, "as sort of a novelty thing," he said.

The New York Times

"Most of the press we got at that time was really focussed on her age, which really took away from what we were doing — like a novelty thing," Workman said.

The New Yorker

I don't want to bad mouth Oh My Cod, because Bill was a lovely guy and this whole meal is basically a novelty thing just done for a laugh, but deep fried roast chicken is a very bad idea.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

To someone of my generation, which came of age when the personal computer was a novelty, things like Siri, FaceTime, and G.P.S.-generated directions seem like technological marvels.

The New Yorker

When I ask bartender McGraw if he'll give the pickle juice remedy a go next time he's hungover, he shakes his head no: "As a pickleback, it's a good novelty thing but I wouldn't really drink pickle juice out of choice".

Vice

It was a garage-y, novelty thing with odd sound effects, a little Beatlesque.

The Guardian - Music

Mr. Powers, who works full time for a communications company, said he started the Internet pizza business "as a part-time novelty thing".

The New York Times

She added: "The whole novelty thing hasn't gone away.

The Guardian - Business

It's funny that rock bands do the novelty thing and get away with it.

The Guardian - Music

As acceptance of street art has grown, the mask has become more of a novelty – although things are more interesting when something is left to the imagination.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a novelty thing", consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended meaning of something new and perhaps not lasting. It's suitable for describing experiences, objects, or ideas that offer a temporary sense of excitement or amusement.

Common error

Avoid using "a novelty thing" to describe items or concepts that are intended to have lasting value or significance. This phrase implies a transient nature, which may undermine the perceived importance or quality of what you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a novelty thing" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object. It describes something new, unusual, or amusing, indicating its nature or quality. This is consistent with the examples found by Ludwig, which use the phrase to characterize various items or experiences.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a novelty thing" is a noun phrase used to describe something new, unusual, or amusing, often implying that its appeal is temporary. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears predominantly in news and media contexts. While not highly formal, it's suitable for general audiences. If a more lasting or significant quality is intended, consider using alternatives like "a unique item" or "an unusual object". When using this phrase, make sure your target is correctly represented, as it might not always be appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a unique item

Focuses on the uniqueness of the item, rather than its temporary appeal.

an unusual object

Highlights the object's deviation from the norm.

a quirky creation

Emphasizes the eccentric or unconventional nature of the creation.

a passing fad

Suggests the item or concept is popular for a short time only.

a fleeting trend

Similar to a fad, but emphasizes the temporary nature of its popularity.

a momentary craze

Implies widespread enthusiasm that quickly fades.

a short-lived interest

Highlights the brief duration of the interest surrounding the item.

a one-off gimmick

Focuses on the item's use as a trick or attention-grabbing device.

a temporary diversion

Suggests the item provides a brief distraction or amusement.

a whimsical trinket

Highlights the playful and decorative nature of the item.

FAQs

How can I use "a novelty thing" in a sentence?

You can use "a novelty thing" to describe something that is new, unusual, or amusing. For example, "At first, everyone thought the self-lacing shoes were "a novelty thing", but they quickly became popular."

What's the difference between "a novelty thing" and "a unique item"?

"A novelty thing" implies something new and possibly short-lived in its appeal, while "a unique item" simply means it's one of a kind, without necessarily being new or temporary.

What can I say instead of "a novelty thing"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a unique item", "an unusual object", or "a quirky creation".

Is "a novelty thing" a formal or informal expression?

"A novelty thing" is generally considered an informal expression suitable for casual conversation or writing. In more formal contexts, consider using more precise language to describe the item or concept.