a slice of butter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slice of butter" is not correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used incorrectly, as butter is a solid fat that is usually spread or cut rather than sliced like bread or cake. Example: "I prefer to spread a slice of butter on my toast, but it would be better to say a pat of butter."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Can you recommend a website or book that covers all those weird and wonderful cooking measurements – ie "a slice of butter", "a good knob of butter", or "a handful of coriander" (whose hand)?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Add the potatoes and other veg and keep frying until they start to brown (you may need to turn up the heat or throw in a slice of butter to help the browning along).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So subtle you can stuff the leaves in a pan with a slice of butter and a mere splash of water, give them five minutes or less to soften, then serve them as a vegetable.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Keep your morning sugar-free by going savory: embellish with a sprinkle of cheese and a slice of butter.

Huffington Post

Add a slice of butter for a richer taste!

WikiHow

Either melt the butter and apply it to the pan using a pastry brush or hold a slice of butter and rub it over the surface.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

3. Stir in the tarragon and spoon onto individual plates garnished with a slice of buttered and toasted French bread.

The New York Times

A classic bara brith (or "speckled bread") from Mary Jones was the perfect reminder of just how good a slice of buttered fruit loaf can be on a cold morning.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I like mine plain and good, w/Tabasco and a slice of buttered french bread or toast.

Huffington Post

It's like I've fallen in love with a slice of buttered white toast and a glass of orange squash.

Vice

For a first taste, try it raw, garnished with fresh chives, alongside a slice of buttered rye bread, and you will be one step closer to understanding the sophistication of simplicity.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When a recipe calls for "a slice of butter", consider using a more precise measurement like "a tablespoon" or "a pat" for better accuracy and consistency.

Common error

Avoid using "a slice of butter" when a specific quantity is needed in a recipe; instead, opt for measurable units like tablespoons or grams to ensure correct proportions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slice of butter" functions as a noun phrase, but it's often considered grammatically questionable. As Ludwig AI points out, butter is typically not sliced, leading to potential ambiguity. Examples show usage in recipes and descriptions, but its correctness is debated.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "a slice of butter" appears in various contexts, it is generally considered grammatically imprecise. As Ludwig AI highlights, butter is not typically sliced, making the phrase ambiguous. Better alternatives include "a pat of butter", "a knob of butter", or specific measurements like "a tablespoon of butter". Usage is more common in informal contexts, with news and media and wiki sources being the most frequent. For recipes and formal writing, it’s best to use precise measurements to ensure clarity and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pat of butter

Refers to a small, pre-portioned amount of butter, often shaped into a square or round.

a knob of butter

Describes a small, irregularly shaped piece of butter.

a tablespoon of butter

Uses a standard measurement to quantify the amount of butter.

a portion of butter

General term for an amount of butter.

a block of butter

Refers to a solid rectangular mass of butter, implying a larger quantity.

a piece of butter

A general, non-specific term for an amount of butter.

a dollop of butter

Indicates a soft, rounded mass of butter.

a quarter cup of butter

Specifies a volumetric measurement, indicating a precise amount of butter.

a dab of butter

Refers to a small amount of butter, often used for a light application.

a generous amount of butter

Emphasizes a large quantity of butter.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to say "a slice of butter"?

While you might encounter the phrase "a slice of butter", it's not considered standard English. It's better to use terms like "a pat of butter" or "a knob of butter".

What's a more precise way to describe the amount of butter instead of "a slice"?

For greater accuracy, use measurements such as "a tablespoon of butter" or "a teaspoon of butter". These provide a clearer idea of the quantity required.

What are some alternatives to "a slice of butter" that are commonly used in recipes?

Common alternatives include "a pat of butter", "a knob of butter", or simply specifying the amount in grams or ounces.

Why is "a slice of butter" considered less accurate or incorrect?

Butter is typically not sliced in the same way as bread or cheese. The phrase lacks a clear and consistent definition, making it difficult to accurately measure the intended quantity. Using standardized measurements ensures better results in cooking and baking.