a quantum of solace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a quantum of solace" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small amount of comfort or consolation in a difficult situation. Example: "After the long and exhausting meeting, I found a quantum of solace in the supportive words of my colleague."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The cinema was closed; "A Quantum of Solace" would not be playing Thursday.

The New York Times

In a confusing present, traditionally, it's the past that can often supply a quantum of solace.

The Guardian - Books

I'm not quite sure what that means, but no one knows what a quantum of solace is, either.

The New Yorker

Art gives life, and more than a quantum of solace; but James Bond, aloft and alone, is always the bringer of death.

The New Yorker

He's one of the foremost authors on James Bond, able therefore to explain to me the meaning of A Quantum of Solace and happy to regale me with wealth of entertaining stories over a Bloody Mary (or nine).

The Guardian - Film

Tricked out with ceramic, titanium and carbon with a special "linear chronograph," the little time machine looks like something James Bond would use to stop a "Quantum of Solace".

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Merely as a shooter Quantum of Solace is satisfying, though certainly not spectacular.

The New York Times - Arts

The studios, which have been operating for more than 75 years, have been the location for Bond films including The Spy Who Loved Me, A View To A Kill and Quantum Of Solace.

BBC

Page C3 BOND DEFIES CRITICS WITH A RECORD In "Quantum of Solace," James Bond possesses an extreme distaste for obeying authority.

The New York Times

But even after a year, it wasn't a great script". Quantum of Solace was eventually released in October 2008, with German-born director Marc Forster at the helm.

BBC

There are basically two types of Bond film plots: he's either preventing villains from developing a superweapon, or preventing villainous business magnates from eliminating their competitors to create a monopoly, and Quantum of Solace delivered the latter, with an environmentalist entrepreneur attempting to control South America's water supply.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a quantum of solace" when you want to convey a small but significant amount of comfort in a situation of distress or difficulty. It adds a touch of sophistication to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a quantum of solace" too frequently, as it can sound pretentious or forced. Use it sparingly for maximum impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a quantum of solace" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as an object or complement within a sentence. It denotes a specific, though limited, quantity of comfort. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a quantum of solace" refers to a small but significant amount of comfort or consolation. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, although it appears more frequently in News & Media sources. While not extremely common, its elevated tone and precise meaning can add nuance to writing. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "a measure of comfort" or "a small comfort", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a measure of comfort

Focuses on the degree of comfort provided, emphasizing it as a limited amount.

a small comfort

Highlights the insignificance of the comfort received.

a bit of consolation

Emphasizes the act of consoling and offering solace.

a modicum of relief

Uses 'modicum' to denote a very small amount of relief, adding a formal tone.

a touch of solace

Implies a delicate and subtle amount of comfort.

a grain of comfort

Uses a metaphor to represent a tiny, almost negligible amount of comfort.

slight consolation

Highlights the mild degree of consolation.

minimal comfort

Directly states the comfort is the least possible.

some slight relief

Underscores that the relief experienced is faint.

a degree of reassurance

Shifts the focus to the reassurance provided, rather than general comfort.

FAQs

What does "a quantum of solace" mean?

The phrase "a quantum of solace" refers to a small amount of comfort or consolation given in a time of distress or grief.

How can I use "a quantum of solace" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe a situation where someone receives a minimal but meaningful amount of comfort, such as, "After the bad news, she found "a measure of comfort" in the support of her friends."

Which is the better phrase, "a quantum of solace" or "a source of solace"?

"A quantum of solace" refers to the amount of comfort, while "a source of solace" refers to what provides the comfort. They are used in different contexts.

What can I say instead of "a quantum of solace"?

You can use alternatives like "a measure of comfort", "a small comfort", or "a bit of consolation" depending on the context.