a shred of truth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a shred of truth" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that there is a small amount of truth in a statement or claim, often in a context where the overall assertion is largely false or misleading. Example: "Despite the numerous exaggerations in his story, there was a shred of truth in his account of the events."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"There wasn't a shred of truth to it.

The New York Times - Sports

There is not a shred of truth in them.

The Guardian

But there is a shred of truth in both observations.

The Guardian - Sport

Besides, there is not a shred of truth in Top Gear's "comic" stereotype.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We are running out of ways to convince the under-25s that there's a shred of truth in this.

The Guardian

There is not a shred of truth to the rumor that President Obama is not really an American citizen, or that he's secretly a Muslim.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

There is not a shred of accuracy in their story.

Huffington Post

"If there was any shred of truth to it, Hillary Clinton and her wonderful investigative opposition (research) machine would have found it and would have used it," Mr. Huckabee said on ABC's "Good Morning America" program just last week.

The New York Times

And if there's any shred of truth to this theory, more power to Google — it's rather genius (though still extremely risky).

TechCrunch

"I'm coming to despise the character of Stewart Lee," he tells us at one point, and there are intriguing hints that, for once, that utterance might contain a shred of the truth.

The Guardian

Nothing that Phillips Sr. tells the twins can be taken as straightforward truth; no promise he makes is securely kept; no solemn assurance is worth a shred of trust.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a shred of truth" when you want to acknowledge a small amount of accuracy within a larger, possibly misleading, statement. It adds nuance and credibility to your writing.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of the "a shred of truth". Ensure that the truthful aspect truly is minor, otherwise, opt for a phrase that indicates a more substantial degree of accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a shred of truth" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an object or complement in a sentence. Ludwig shows its function to concede a small element of accuracy, with the overall statement false or misleading.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a shred of truth" is a noun phrase used to concede that a statement contains a small degree of accuracy, even if the overall statement is questionable. Ludwig indicates that its grammatical status is correct, and it's commonly used in news, media, and professional contexts. When writing, remember to avoid overstating the significance of that "shred of truth". Alternative phrases include "a grain of truth" or "a hint of truth". Understanding these nuances will help you effectively convey your intended meaning and avoid common errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a grain of truth

Emphasizes a very small, almost insignificant amount of truth, similar to "a shred of truth".

a hint of truth

Suggests a subtle or indirect indication of truth, implying that the truth is not fully revealed.

an element of truth

Highlights a specific component or aspect of a statement that aligns with reality.

a kernel of truth

Implies that the truth is at the core of something, like the seed of a larger concept.

a semblance of truth

Indicates an outward appearance or imitation of truth, which may not be entirely genuine.

a touch of truth

Suggests a delicate or subtle presence of truth, similar to adding a small amount of flavor.

a degree of truth

Implies that the statement is partly true but not entirely accurate or complete.

a smattering of truth

Highlights scattered or infrequent instances of truth within a broader context.

a fragment of truth

Indicates an incomplete or broken piece of truth, suggesting that the full picture is missing.

a glimmer of truth

Suggests a faint or fleeting indication of truth, implying uncertainty or obscurity.

FAQs

How can I use "a shred of truth" in a sentence?

You can use "a shred of truth" to acknowledge a small element of accuracy within a broader statement, as in, "While the report was largely fabricated, there was "a shred of truth" to the claim that the company faced financial difficulties".

What's a good alternative to "a shred of truth"?

Alternatives include "a grain of truth", "a hint of truth", or "an element of truth", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "a shred of truth" or "the truth"?

The choice depends on the context. "The truth" refers to the complete and factual reality. "A shred of truth" acknowledges a small, possibly insignificant, element of truth within a larger context that may not be entirely true.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a shred of truth"?

Use "a shred of truth" when you want to concede that something contains a small element of accuracy, even if the overall statement is misleading or false. This can add nuance and credibility to your writing.