a precious one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precious one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something or someone that is highly valued or cherished. Example: "In her eyes, her grandmother's locket was a precious one, filled with memories and love."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

A messy finish, but a precious one.

The Guardian - Sport

"The right of peaceful protest is a precious one.

The Guardian

The illusion of going to work is quite a precious one.

The Guardian - Books

£43.19, amazon.co.uk Anissa Helou food writer: "I have collected a few ceramic knives over the years, but my favourite is a precious one I got from Lorenzi in Milan.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The irony is that judging by the introductions she writes to each story, Lively's life has been a precious one of happy memories - a long, fulfilling marriage, two children, a career as an author.

The Guardian - Books

During sex, he moved her through a series of positions with brusque efficiency, flipping her over, pushing her around, and she felt like a doll again, as she had outside the 7-Eleven, though not a precious one now — a doll made of rubber, flexible and resilient, a prop for the movie that was playing in his head.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

You have to go back to Hove at the end of May, when Chris Jordan's last ball six secured a precious one-wicket win, for its last airing in the County Championship.

The Guardian - Sport

An hour later, each child has received a new pair of pajamas and a new book, and shared precious one-on-one bonding.

Huffington Post

Ms. Mirren's gift for amplifying mixed emotions without sacrificing their intricacy is a rare and precious one.

The New York Times

The child passes an evocative set of tests conducted by elder lamas (he chooses among bells and sets of prayer beads and identifies the ones belonging to the departed master) and is declared a reincarnated rinpoche, or "precious one".

The New York Times

I need the precious one-on-one with my doctors so that they and I may have a confidential and attentive session to discuss, diagnose and treat my ills.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "a precious one" with descriptive adjectives to further emphasize the qualities that make the subject valuable or cherished. For instance, 'a rare and precious one' or 'a delicate and precious one'.

Common error

Avoid using "a precious one" in highly formal or technical writing where a more neutral or objective tone is required. Opt for phrases like "a valuable asset" or "an important element" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precious one" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a descriptor to emphasize the high value or importance of something or someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable and correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Huffington Post

14%

Vice

14%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a precious one" is an effective way to express deep affection, value, or importance. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable. While it is versatile, it is best suited for personal narratives and creative writing rather than highly formal or technical contexts. Consider alternatives like "a treasured one" or "a cherished one" for nuanced variations. Keep in mind that overuse in formal settings can diminish its impact, so use it judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a treasured one

Emphasizes the act of holding something dear and valuable.

a cherished one

Highlights the emotional connection and fondness associated with something or someone.

a valued one

Focuses on the importance and worth attributed to something or someone.

a beloved one

Indicates deep affection and love for someone or something.

a prized one

Suggests that something is highly esteemed and sought after.

a special one

Highlights the uniqueness and distinctiveness of something or someone.

a significant one

Emphasizes the importance and consequence of something.

a favorite one

Implies a preference or liking for something over others.

a dear one

Indicates affection and closeness.

a choice one

Suggests something of high quality or excellence, carefully selected.

FAQs

What does "a precious one" mean?

The phrase "a precious one" refers to something or someone highly valued, cherished, or of great importance. It implies a sense of deep affection and significance.

When is it appropriate to use "a precious one" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "a precious one" in contexts where you want to convey deep affection, value, or importance. This phrase works well in personal narratives, heartfelt descriptions, and situations where emotional expression is key.

What are some alternatives to "a precious one"?

You can use alternatives like "a treasured one", "a cherished one", or "a valued one" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a precious one" formal or informal?

The phrase "a precious one" leans towards the informal side due to its affectionate and emotive nature. It is better suited for personal or creative writing rather than formal or technical contexts.