a patch of sun

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a patch of sun" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small area where sunlight is shining, often in contrast to surrounding shaded areas. Example: "The cat lay contentedly in a patch of sun, soaking up the warmth on the cold floor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

On the floor, her dog lolled in a patch of sun.

The New York Times - Magazine

He will find a patch of sun anywhere and sit in it, like a big cat, following that sliver wherever it goes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So despite being "like a big cat" that always finds a patch of sun and sits in it, Cohen has made time for his children.

The Guardian - Books

On a day I was there, buoyant young men and women, wearing shorts or Puma T-shirts, called him by his first name as they discussed encryption and tap-to-pay technologies; Nilekani's spaniel napped in a patch of sun.

The New Yorker

When Noah was young, she would walk him to school, walk straight home, and lie in a patch of sun on the carpet until it was time to pick him up.

The New Yorker

The luxurious combination, she says, catapulted her straight to a patch of sun in the South of France.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Once I tried to step over a snake lying across the path, dark blue, silent, warming itself on a patch of sun-heated dirt.

The New York Times - Travel

Although arctic experts said there were many signs of warming, including a thinning and shrinking of the polar ice cap, there was no way to link a patch of sun-dappled water at the pole to climate change.

The New York Times

"Find a patch of sunlight, my boy.

The New Yorker

In a patch of autumn sun outside a mechanic's workshop in northern Syria, Medras Daroo sat in a plastic chair singing a love song.

The Times

Warming his arthritic ankles in a patch of winter sun, Cecilio Avila oozes gratitude for Governor Marin's monthly food parcels for the elderly.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an animal enjoying the sun, use "a patch of sun" to create a vivid image of the animal's contentment.

Common error

Avoid using "a patch of sun" to describe large areas; it implies a small, distinct area of sunlight. For expansive areas use alternatives like "sun-drenched landscape".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a patch of sun" functions primarily as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies a specific, limited area illuminated by sunlight, as shown in Ludwig's examples, where animals or objects are located in a patch of sun.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a patch of sun" is a grammatically sound and evocative noun phrase that depicts a small area illuminated by sunlight. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability across diverse contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, its function is largely descriptive, offering readers a vivid and tranquil image. For alternatives, consider "a sunlit area" or "a sunny spot" for similar effect. While versatile, remember it implies a smaller scale than a completely sun-drenched landscape. "A patch of sun" is not merely a phrase; it is a stroke of imagery ready to paint warmth and light into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sunlit area

Focuses on the area being lit by the sun, removing the 'patch' connotation of limited size.

a sunny spot

Emphasizes the pleasant and warm nature of the sun's location.

a pool of sunlight

Uses 'pool' to create a visual metaphor of sunlight collecting in a specific area.

a sunbeam's reach

Highlights the distance and effect of the sunbeam itself.

a ray of sunshine

Focuses on a single ray, suggesting brightness and warmth.

a sun-drenched spot

Implies the spot is thoroughly soaked in sunlight, more intense than a simple patch.

a sun kissed area

Describes the area as gently touched by the sun, often used poetically.

a sunlit clearing

Suggests an open space filled with sunlight, often in a forest setting.

where the sun shines

A more general description of a sunny location, less specific than a 'patch'.

a sun pocket

Refers to a small area that traps sunlight, creating a warm space.

FAQs

How can I use "a patch of sun" in a sentence?

You can use "a patch of sun" to describe a small area where sunlight is shining. For example: "The cat was sleeping in "a patch of sun" on the windowsill".

What can I say instead of "a patch of sun"?

You can use alternatives like "a sunlit area", "a sunny spot", or "a pool of sunlight" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a patch of sun" in formal writing?

Yes, "a patch of sun" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when describing a scene or setting. However, consider whether a more precise or evocative term might be more suitable for your specific context.

What's the difference between "a patch of sun" and "a sunbeam"?

"A patch of sun" refers to the area where sunlight falls, while "a sunbeam" refers to the ray of light itself. One describes an area, the other describes the light source.