a recipe for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a recipe for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a plan for achieving something. For example: "I have a recipe for success that I've followed my whole life: work hard and never give up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A recipe for mayhem?

The New York Times

A recipe for disaster.

Independent

It's a recipe for paralysis.

The New York Times

"It's a recipe for trouble".

The New York Times

That's a recipe for chaos".

Independent

— it's a recipe for catastrophe.

The New York Times

That's a recipe for cynicism.

The New York Times

This is not a recipe for isolationism.

The New York Times

It is a recipe for disaster.

The New York Times

That is a recipe for demographic collapse.

The Economist

Thus, I offer a recipe for nachos.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a recipe for", ensure the connection between the ingredients/actions and the outcome is logical and understandable to your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a recipe for" when you simply mean a list of ingredients or steps without a guaranteed outcome. The phrase implies a high degree of certainty that the specified actions will produce the predicted result.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a recipe for" functions as a noun phrase acting as a predicate nominative or subject complement. It identifies or describes the subject of a sentence, indicating that the subject is a method or set of conditions that will predictably lead to a specific outcome. This is supported by Ludwig AI, confirming its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a recipe for" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that a particular set of actions or conditions is likely to lead to a specific result. Ludwig AI validates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in news and media, but also used in formal business and scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral tone. Related phrases include "a formula for", "a blueprint for", and "the key to", allowing for varied expression while conveying the same core meaning. When using this phrase, ensure the link between actions and outcomes is clear and logical to your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a formula for

Replaces 'recipe' with 'formula', emphasizing a precise set of instructions or steps.

a blueprint for

Substitutes 'recipe' with 'blueprint', highlighting a detailed plan or design.

a formula to achieve

Replaces the phrase with a structure that highlights purpose and achievement.

a method to obtain

Uses 'method' instead of 'recipe' to indicate a structured process for reaching a goal.

the way to

Simplifies the expression to a more direct indication of a path or method.

a path towards

Replaces 'recipe' with 'path', focusing on the directional aspect of achieving something.

a strategy for

Emphasizes a planned series of actions designed to achieve a specific outcome.

a course of action for

Highlights the active steps needed to bring about a specific result.

the key to

Uses 'key' as a metaphor for the essential element needed for a specific result.

a means of

Indicates a way or method to achieve something, focusing on the resources or processes used.

FAQs

How can I use "a recipe for" in a sentence?

You can use "a recipe for" to describe how certain actions or conditions will likely lead to a specific result. For example, "Consistent hard work is "a recipe for" success" or "Ignoring safety protocols is "a recipe for" disaster".

What are some alternatives to "a recipe for"?

Alternatives to "a recipe for" include phrases like "a formula for", "a blueprint for", or "the key to", depending on the context.

Is "a recipe for disaster" a common idiom?

"A recipe for disaster" is indeed a common idiom. It's used to describe a situation where a series of actions or events are likely to result in a negative outcome.

Can "a recipe for" be used in positive and negative contexts?

Yes, "a recipe for" can be used to describe both positive and negative outcomes. For example, "Teamwork and dedication are "a recipe for" success" (positive) versus "Poor planning and lack of communication are "a recipe for" failure" (negative).