a patch of sunshine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a patch of sunshine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small area of sunlight or a metaphorical moment of happiness or positivity in an otherwise gloomy situation. Example: "After a long week of rain, the sudden appearance of a patch of sunshine lifted everyone's spirits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We lay there, shoulder to shoulder, on a blanket in a patch of sunshine, feeling the delicious sleepy buzz that cold water produces.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Find a patch of sunlight, my boy.

The New Yorker

Yesterday, they ran bucking and kicking into a level patch of sunshine, and when Remedy lay down for a rest — flat-out — he almost disappeared beneath the snow-line.

The New York Times

When much of the garden is still bare, here is a patch of green in the early spring sunshine, a link with last year's efforts and a promise of more to come, that this brown, empty earth will soon be brimming with life.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In any case, Hadrian, after seven years of midnight toil, found this patch of sunshine and was carried to mystic heights.

The New Yorker

For the next few hours, he will be soaking up the Californian sunshine – on a patch of beach that is rightfully his to enjoy.

The Guardian

Books are scattered everywhere, like the Tao Te Ching, left on a table by a black canvas 1960's butterfly chair turned to face a patch of electric-red bee balm blooming in a pool of sunshine.

The New York Times

(See: "A Spot Of Sunshine For British Retailers").

Forbes

I parked in a patch of shade.

The New Yorker

He landed on a patch of grass.

The New York Times

Here is a patch of burlap.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a patch of sunshine" to vividly describe a physical space illuminated by sunlight, or to metaphorically represent a brief, welcome moment of positivity in a challenging situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a patch of sunshine" in situations where the sentiment feels forced or exaggerated. Overusing it can make your writing sound clichéd or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a patch of sunshine" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific area illuminated by sunlight or, metaphorically, a brief period of happiness or positivity, as evidenced by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a patch of sunshine" is a versatile noun phrase, characterized by its grammatical correctness and prevalent usage. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function lies in either vividly portraying an area blessed with sunlight or metaphorically depicting fleeting moments of positivity. Although its register leans towards neutral, one should exercise caution against its overuse in overly sentimental settings. Drawing insights from various reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, the phrase commonly finds its place in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts, enriching writing with its warmth and optimism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a ray of sunlight

Focuses on a single beam of light rather than an area.

a spot of sunlight

Similar, but emphasizes a smaller, more defined area of light.

a burst of sunshine

Suggests a sudden and intense appearance of sunlight.

a glimmer of hope

Metaphorically represents a small sign of optimism.

a moment of joy

Focuses on the feeling of happiness rather than light.

a bright spot

More general term for something positive in a negative situation.

a silver lining

Emphasizes the positive aspect of a difficult situation.

a source of happiness

Highlights the origin of joy instead of a brief instance.

a pocket of warmth

Conveys a sense of comfort and coziness.

a window of opportunity

Represents a chance for advancement or improvement.

FAQs

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

You can use "a patch of sunshine" to describe a physical area illuminated by sunlight, such as "We sat in "a patch of sunshine" in the garden." Alternatively, it can metaphorically represent a moment of happiness or positivity.

What's the difference between "a patch of sunshine" and "a ray of sunshine"?

"A patch of sunshine" refers to a broader area of sunlight, while "a ray of sunshine" implies a single beam of light. Metaphorically, "a patch" suggests a more encompassing positive influence.

What can I say instead of ""a patch of sunshine"" to describe something positive?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a glimmer of hope", "a bright spot", or "a moment of joy".

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

While generally acceptable, consider your audience. In very formal or academic writing, a more neutral phrase might be preferable, unless you specifically aim to evoke warmth or positivity. In such case, using "a ray of sunshine" might be better.