a ray of sun

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a ray of sun" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a beam of sunlight or metaphorically to signify hope or positivity. Example: "As she stepped outside, a ray of sun broke through the clouds, warming her face and lifting her spirits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

But then, a ray of sun appeared.

The New York Times

A ray of Sun ReprintsIt is still possible to be cynical.

The Economist

As a ray of sun shone down on him, his braces sparkled.

The New York Times - Sports

In "The Tree of Life," God is everywhere and nowhere — in a ray of sun, a blade of grass.

The New York Times

A ray of Sun ReprintsOne is weak economic growth everywhere in the world, but especially in America and Japan.

The Economist

In the home of a poor samurai, set in deep shadows, a ray of sun slices through the room and reveals a red maple tree.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

The style is one in which the randomly observed objects of the world -- a broken chair, a stone on the ground, an impetuous ray of sun -- give substance to a darkly erotic and absurdist psychological realism in which a sinister violence lurks nearby.

The New York Times - Books

Workers are getting scorched by the new Walkie Talkie skyscraper focusing a sharp ray of sun onto the pavement.

The Guardian - Business

My Aunt Lily, sitting on a bench on one of those dirty islands in the middle of Broadway traffic, raising her face for a warming ray of sun?

The New York Times - Books

But a small ray of sun reached the cliff itself, heating that spot up to 50 degrees Celsius — the temperature of Death Valley in high summer.

The Washington Post

Over the river a golden ray of sun came through the hosts of leaden rain clouds.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase metaphorically, ensure the context clearly supports the intended meaning. Avoid using it in situations where a more direct expression of hope or positivity would be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "a ray of sun" in highly technical or scientific writing where precise language is crucial. Opt for more specific and literal descriptions to maintain clarity and accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a ray of sun" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or an object, describing something that brings light or hope. Ludwig AI's examples showcase its usage in descriptive and metaphorical contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a ray of sun" functions as a noun phrase that commonly evokes feelings of hope, positivity, or clarity. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and readily usable, though not overwhelmingly frequent. It appears most often in News & Media contexts. While "a ray of sun" can be used literally to describe sunlight, it's also frequently used metaphorically to represent something uplifting or enlightening. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the overall tone and context of your writing, ensuring it aligns with the intended emotional impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a beam of sunlight

Focuses on the physical aspect of light from the sun.

a shaft of sunlight

Similar to "a beam of sunlight", but emphasizes the shape of the light.

a silver lining

Indicates a positive aspect in a negative situation.

a glimmer of hope

Shifts the meaning to a metaphorical representation of hope.

a bright spot

Highlights a positive element in an otherwise gloomy scenario.

a spark of optimism

Represents a small amount of positive feeling or belief.

a moment of brightness

Highlights a brief period of positive experience.

a touch of warmth

Emphasizes the feeling of comfort and positivity.

an instant of joy

Focuses on a fleeting feeling of happiness.

a stroke of luck

Suggests a fortunate or favorable occurrence.

FAQs

How can I use "a ray of sun" in a sentence?

You can use "a ray of sun" to describe a literal beam of sunlight, as in, "A ray of sun peeked through the clouds." Alternatively, you can use it metaphorically to represent hope or positivity, such as, "After the bad news, her smile was "a ray of sun"."

What are some synonyms for "a ray of sun"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a beam of sunlight", "a shaft of sunlight", or, metaphorically, "a glimmer of hope" or "a spark of optimism".

Is it appropriate to use "a ray of sun" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, using "a ray of sun" in formal writing depends on the tone and purpose. It may be more suitable for descriptive or evocative passages. In technical contexts, consider using more precise language.

What does the idiom "a ray of sun" symbolize?

The phrase "a ray of sun" often symbolizes hope, positivity, or a moment of clarity in a difficult or dark situation. It represents something that brings light and warmth, either literally or figuratively.