a quarter inch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a quarter inch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when specifying a measurement, particularly in contexts related to construction, crafting, or any situation where precise dimensions are important. Example: "The board should be cut to a quarter inch shorter than the original length to ensure a proper fit."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

*Trim wicks to a quarter inch before each use.

The New York Times - Health

Precipitation ranged from a quarter inch to over 4 inches (in Jefferson County).

Cornell University

Precipitation ranged from less than a quarter inch to 2 inches for most of the state.

Cornell University

Precipitation ranged from less than a quarter inch to over 4 inches in isolated ares.

Cornell University

"At a quarter inch, it won't get excited about playing one".

The New Yorker

Espressos served in glass cups were gorgeous, boasting a quarter inch of dense crema.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

The actual world record is 29' 4¼"—a quarter-inch less.

Vice

The Jitterbug is a flip-phone that opens to a two-and-a-quarter-inch screen.

The New York Times

Damage to bolt: a quarter-inch cut.

The New Yorker

Repeat: a quarter-inch of hot duck fat.

The New York Times

Start with asparagus no less than a quarter-inch thick.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In crafting or sewing instructions, specify "a quarter inch seam allowance" for precision and consistency.

Common error

Avoid overstating the importance of "a quarter inch" when the context doesn't require it. For example, instead of saying "The success hinged on a quarter inch", consider "The success hinged on a minor adjustment" if the specific measurement isn't crucial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a quarter inch" functions as a measurement or quantifier, specifying a small linear distance. It's used to provide a precise but easily understandable dimension in various contexts, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

44%

News & Media

35%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a quarter inch" is a common and grammatically correct measurement phrase, primarily used to specify a small linear distance. As Ludwig AI explains, it is suitable for a wide range of contexts. The phrase is most frequently found in Wiki and News & Media sources, indicating its versatility. For technical contexts, "0.25 inches" may be preferred, while general instructions benefit from the more accessible "a quarter inch". The phrase’s register is generally neutral, making it appropriate for both informal and formal settings. Being off by "a quarter inch of lean" can ruin everything, as Ludwig's examples highlight the need for precision when specifying distances. Finally, while seemingly innocuous, it is fundamental to distinguish the need to specify when approximate measurements are acceptable versus using "a quarter inch".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

0.25 inches

This is a direct numerical equivalent, suitable for technical contexts.

one fourth of an inch

This is the fractional equivalent, emphasizing the proportion.

6.35 millimeters

This is the metric equivalent, useful in international contexts.

almost point three inches

Offers a more conversational version of the numerical value.

a small fraction of an inch

This highlights that the measurement is less than one inch.

just under a third of an inch

Offers a comparative measurement that is still close in size.

a tiny amount

This expresses the smallness of the quantity without precise measurement.

a hair's breadth

This is an idiomatic expression for a very small distance.

a slim margin

This emphasizes a small difference, typically in competitive settings.

a scant bit

Emphasizes the limited quantity in more informal contexts.

FAQs

How do you convert "a quarter inch" to metric?

"A quarter inch" is approximately equal to 6.35 millimeters. To convert inches to millimeters, you multiply the number of inches by 25.4.

What's another way to say "a quarter inch"?

You can use alternatives like "one-fourth of an inch" or "0.25 inches". Depending on the context, you might also use "a tiny amount" or "a hair's breadth".

When is it appropriate to use "a quarter inch" instead of a more precise measurement?

Use "a quarter inch" when an approximate measurement is sufficient and greater precision isn't necessary for the task or understanding. It's suitable for general instructions, crafting, or contexts where exactness isn't critical.

Is it better to write "a quarter inch" or "one-quarter inch"?

Both "a quarter inch" and "one-quarter inch" are grammatically correct. "A quarter inch" is more commonly used in general writing, while "one-quarter inch" might be preferred in more formal or technical contexts for added clarity.