a paper towel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a paper towel" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a disposable absorbent towel made of paper, typically used for drying hands or cleaning up spills. Example: "After washing my hands, I reached for a paper towel to dry them off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Transfer to a paper towel.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Did you come for a paper towel?

The New Yorker

Drain the capers on a paper towel.

The New York Times - Magazine

Remove and drain on a paper towel.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A depressed pomeranian savages a paper towel.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Transfer them to a paper towel.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Remove and blot on a paper towel.

Los Angeles Times

Set them aside on a paper towel.

Huffington Post

Rinse and grab a paper towel.

Huffington Post

You were very lovely and handed me a paper towel.

Huffington Post

Transfer to a paper towel and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to more than one, use "paper towels".

Common error

Don't substitute "a paper towel" with a reusable cloth when hygiene is critical. Paper towels are designed for single use, reducing the risk of spreading germs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a paper towel" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of disposable absorbent material. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it is commonly used in contexts where cleaning or drying is necessary.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

36%

News & Media

24%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a paper towel" is a very common and grammatically sound noun phrase referring to a disposable absorbent material. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used across various contexts, most frequently in news, lifestyle, and instructional content. When writing, remember that this is the singular form; use "paper towels" for plural references. For environmentally conscious writing, acknowledge that reusable cloths are more sustainable options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a disposable towel

Focuses on the disposability aspect of a paper towel.

an absorbent sheet

Highlights the absorbent property and sheet form.

a kitchen roll

Specifies the common location and form factor.

a cleaning tissue

Emphasizes the cleaning function of the paper towel.

a wiping cloth

Describes the action performed with the paper towel.

a sanitary wipe

Suggests the use for hygiene and cleanliness.

a drying square

Focuses on the shape and purpose of drying.

a cellulose sheet

Highlights the material composition of the paper towel.

a single-use towel

Emphasizes the single-use nature of the item.

a throwaway cloth

Indicates that the cloth is designed to be discarded after use.

FAQs

How can I use "a paper towel" in a sentence?

You can use "a paper towel" in sentences like, "I used "a paper towel" to clean up the spill" or "Please hand me "a paper towel" after you wash your hands".

What are some alternatives to "a paper towel"?

Alternatives to "a paper towel" include "a disposable towel", "a kitchen roll", or, for more sustainable options, "a reusable cloth".

When should I use "a paper towel" versus a regular cloth?

"A paper towel" is ideal for cleaning up messes where hygiene is a concern, such as spills involving raw meat. A regular cloth is suitable for general cleaning and can be reused, but requires regular washing.

Is it environmentally responsible to use "a paper towel"?

While "a paper towel" offers convenience, it's less environmentally friendly than reusable options. Consider using "a reusable cloth" or exploring sustainable paper towel alternatives made from recycled materials.