a page-turner

USAGE SUMMARY

"a page-turner" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a book or movie that is so exciting that it is hard to put down. For example, "The plot of the novel was so gripping that it was a real page-turner!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

A page-turner?

The Guardian - Opinion

This one is hardly a page-turner.

The Economist

"I love a page-turner," she said.

The New Yorker

'A page-turner of a crime thriller..

Stanford University

This is, believe me, a page-turner.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Allen's book is itself a page-turner!

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

It's a page turner too.

The Guardian - Opinion

That sounds like a page turner.

The New York Times - Books

It wishes it were a page turner.

The New York Times - Books

"It was a page turner," she said.

The New York Times - Arts

As investigative reports go, it's a page turner.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a book, movie, or even an event as "a page-turner", ensure that your description highlights the specific elements that make it so engaging, such as suspenseful plot twists, compelling characters, or a fast-paced narrative.

Common error

While "a page-turner" is a useful descriptor, avoid overusing it. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "gripping read" or "riveting story" to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a page-turner" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a predicate nominative or an appositive to describe something—usually a book, but also a movie or event—that is exceptionally engaging and exciting. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

10%

Science

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a page-turner" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase used to describe something incredibly engaging, especially books and movies. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage, confirming its role in expressing enthusiasm. While primarily found in news and media, its versatility allows for use in varied contexts. To enhance your writing, aim to highlight specific captivating elements, and enrich vocabulary, consider alternatives like "gripping read" and "riveting story" for diversity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unputdownable book

This alternative emphasizes the inability to stop reading.

gripping read

This alternative focuses on the captivating nature of the reading experience.

riveting story

This alternative highlights the compelling and fascinating nature of the narrative.

captivating narrative

This alternative stresses the power of the story to hold the audience's interest.

absorbing tale

This alternative suggests the story completely captures the reader's attention.

engrossing narrative

This alternative emphasizes the immersive quality of the story.

edge-of-your-seat thriller

This alternative conveys the high level of suspense and excitement.

thrilling account

This alternative focuses on excitement and suspense.

fast-paced novel

This alternative highlights the quick progression of events.

compelling work

This alternative speaks to the strength and persuasiveness of the writing.

FAQs

How can I use "a page-turner" in a sentence?

You can use "a page-turner" to describe a book, movie, or other form of media that is very exciting and keeps you wanting to know what happens next. For example, "The novel was such "a page-turner" that I finished it in one sitting."

What are some alternatives to saying "a page-turner"?

You can use alternatives such as "gripping read", "riveting story", or "unputdownable book" to describe something very engaging.

Is it appropriate to call non-fiction books "a page-turner"?

Yes, you can describe a non-fiction book as "a page-turner" if it is written in a way that is exceptionally engaging and keeps you wanting to read more. This usually means that it presents information in a compelling and accessible way.

What makes a book "a page-turner"?

Typically, a book described as "a page-turner" has a combination of factors such as a well-developed plot, suspenseful situations, interesting characters, and a writing style that pulls the reader in and makes them want to know what happens next.