a scrap of paper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a scrap of paper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small piece of paper, often one that is torn or not whole, typically in contexts involving notes, reminders, or informal writing. Example: "She jotted down the phone number on a scrap of paper and tucked it into her wallet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Our Constitution was reduced to a scrap of paper".

The New York Times

She wrote down Dave's number on a scrap of paper.

The New York Times

True to our word : the enemy deride " A scrap of paper "aboast of hacking through.

Cornell University

Reading a string of gobbledygook written on a scrap of paper is a low-tech ritual.

The Economist

"The law", declared Saddam Hussein, "is anything I write on a scrap of paper".

The Economist

My message was scribbled on a scrap of paper and tucked discreetly into her change purse.

The New York Times - Magazine

Subject removes a scrap of paper from her pocket and studies it, looking concerned.

The New York Times

He saw a scrap of paper lying by the garage door.

The New Yorker

"Tears Shed for L.M.B.," I might have written on a scrap of paper.

The New Yorker

Driving home, she found an empty cup and a scrap of paper.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad shrugged them off as a “scrap of paper.”.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a scrap of paper" to denote informality or a temporary note. It's ideal when the quality or size of the paper isn't important.

Common error

Avoid using "a scrap of paper" when describing important documents or official records. Opt for terms like "document", "form", or "official record" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a scrap of paper" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb or preposition, describing something small and unimportant. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

14%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a scrap of paper" is a common noun phrase used to describe a small, often insignificant piece of paper. It's grammatically correct and widely used across various sources, as Ludwig AI confirms. While versatile, it's more suited for neutral to informal contexts, less so for formal or scientific writing. Common alternatives include "a small piece of paper" or "a bit of paper", depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Its frequent occurrence in news and media highlights its general understandability and applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small piece of paper

Focuses on the size and material, emphasizing the fragment aspect less.

a bit of paper

Uses a more informal term for 'piece', suggesting a casual context.

a slip of paper

Implies a narrow, rectangular shape, often used for notes or messages.

a fragment of paper

Highlights the incomplete, broken nature of the paper.

a paper shred

Emphasizes that the paper is torn into small, often unusable pieces.

a note on paper

Indicates that the paper contains written information.

a loose sheet of paper

Highlights the fact that the paper is not bound or attached to anything.

a torn piece of paper

Explicitly states that the paper is torn.

a waste of paper

Focuses on the idea that the paper is being used inefficiently.

an odd piece of paper

Suggests the paper is unusual or out of place.

FAQs

How can I use "a scrap of paper" in a sentence?

You can use "a scrap of paper" to describe a small, often unimportant piece of paper. For example, "He jotted down the phone number on "a scrap of paper"."

What can I say instead of "a scrap of paper"?

You can use alternatives like "a small piece of paper", "a bit of paper", or "a slip of paper" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a scrap of paper" in formal writing?

Generally, no. "A scrap of paper" implies informality. In formal contexts, use terms like "document" or "official record".

What is the difference between "a scrap of paper" and "a piece of paper"?

"A scrap of paper" suggests a small, often torn or used piece of paper, while "a piece of paper" is a more general term that doesn't necessarily imply it's small or damaged.