a precious gem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precious gem" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is valuable, rare, and often beautiful. For example, you could say, "The painting was like a precious gem, with bright colors and intricate details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Sapphire crystal – why Apple's interested in a precious gem.

The Guardian - Tech

Instead, he instructed his players to treat every possession like a precious gem.

The New York Times - Sports

A precious gem of a person, filled with kindness, caring and love.

The New York Times

He looked at the early spring flowers, studying them the way a jeweler would examine a precious gem.

The New York Times

This show is a precious gem we feel can be a player for us for years to come".

The New York Times

Every club craves unearthing such a precious gem as Hernandez, who scored 20 goals in a memorable debut season at Old Trafford.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

The word 'GEM' means a precious stone, so really you can say that girls are precious stones.

Unicef

Watch the video for Fight for This Love Miike Snow – Black and Blue Genuinely odd pop music is a rare and precious gem.

The Guardian - Music

The second purchase was a dial and precious gem setting manufacture located in Plan-les-Ouates in Geneva.

Wikipedia

But there's perhaps an even more precious gem lying within the massive venue: Startup Alley.

TechCrunch

Most precious gem, A blaze on the brow of eternity!

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a precious gem" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes what makes the subject valuable or cherished. For instance, describe specific qualities that make a person kind or a skill exceptional.

Common error

Avoid using "a precious gem" in predictable situations where the value is already obvious (e.g., describing a newborn baby). Instead, seek less conventional applications to maintain impact and originality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precious gem" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as a metaphor. It typically serves as a subject complement or an appositive, describing something of high value or great worth. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and diverse application.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precious gem" is a noun phrase functioning as a metaphor to describe something of significant value or worth. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples. Its usage ranges from neutral to informal registers, frequently appearing in news and media contexts. While effective, it's important to avoid overuse in clichéd situations and instead leverage it to highlight the unique qualities of the subject being described. Consider alternatives like "a valuable asset" or "a prized possession" to maintain originality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a treasure

A more general term for something highly valued.

a prized possession

Emphasizes ownership and high value placed on an item.

a cherished item

Highlights the emotional value and care given to something.

a valuable asset

Focuses on the worth or usefulness of something.

a rare find

Stresses the difficulty in discovering or obtaining something.

a one-of-a-kind item

Emphasizes the uniqueness and irreplaceability of something.

an invaluable resource

Indicates that something is extremely helpful and important.

a priceless artifact

Highlights something historically or culturally valuable.

an extraordinary gift

Suggests something received with special significance.

a singular talent

Shifts the focus to describe a person's unique ability.

FAQs

How can I use "a precious gem" in a sentence?

You can use "a precious gem" to describe something valuable, rare, or cherished. For example, "This manuscript is "a precious gem", offering insights into a pivotal moment in history."

What can I say instead of "a precious gem"?

You can use alternatives like "a valuable asset", "a prized possession", or "a cherished item" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a precious gem" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, using more precise language that specifies the exact value or importance might be preferable in formal writing. Consider alternatives like "an invaluable resource" or "an extraordinary gift".

What makes "a precious gem" different from "a rare find"?

"A precious gem" emphasizes inherent value and beauty, while "a rare find" highlights the difficulty in discovering something, regardless of its inherent qualities.