a slice of cake

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slice of cake" is a correct and common part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used when describing a portion of a cake that has been cut or served. Example: "I couldn't resist ordering a slice of cake from the bakery display. It was a decadent chocolate cake with layers of frosting and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'll have a slice of cake tonight," said Schofield, smiling.

The Guardian - Sport

I then proceeded to pantomime eating a slice of cake, using an actual fork and plate.

The New York Times - Food

Each merited a drink, a few snacks, and maybe a slice of cake.

The New Yorker

They eat a slice of cake at dinner and that's it.

The New York Times - Food

"Here, you need to eat more," Marilena said, dumping a slice of cake in my bowl.

The Guardian

Yet what he remembers most about that day 20 years ago is a slice of cake.

The New York Times

On her birthday Eva presented him with a slice of cake.

The New Yorker

The boy thought it was a slice of cake, but it wasn't.

The New Yorker

About $11 for a pot of tea and a slice of cake in the garden.

The New York Times - Travel

Head to Slindon Forge café for a slice of cake or a light lunch.

The Guardian - Travel

However, that doesn't mean one gym class allows for two glasses of wine and a slice of cake.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a slice of cake" metaphorically (e.g., "life is a slice of cake"), ensure the context is clear and the metaphor resonates with your audience to avoid misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "a slice of cake" in highly formal or professional writing where a more sophisticated or precise term might be more appropriate. Opt for alternatives like 'a portion' or 'a serving' in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slice of cake" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence. It refers to a specific portion of cake. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common expression used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

13%

Reference

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a slice of cake" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase primarily used to describe a portion of cake. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. It frequently appears in News & Media and Wiki contexts and can also be used metaphorically to suggest something easy or pleasant. While its register is generally neutral, it's best to avoid overuse in highly formal writing. When you want alternatives, consider using ""a piece of cake"" or ""a portion of cake"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a piece of cake

Uses 'piece' instead of 'slice', maintaining the same meaning.

a wedge of cake

Replaces 'slice' with 'wedge', suggesting a triangular cut of cake.

a serving of cake

Replaces 'slice' with 'serving', indicating a portion size.

a portion of cake

Uses 'portion' instead of 'slice', emphasizing a specific amount of cake.

a cut of cake

Replaces 'slice' with 'cut', referring to the action of dividing the cake.

a segment of cake

Uses 'segment' instead of 'slice', suggesting a distinct part of the cake.

cake slice

Reorders the words and omits the article 'a', forming a compound noun.

a sliver of cake

Replaces 'slice' with 'sliver', indicating a very thin piece of cake.

cake portion

Reorders the words and omits the article 'a', emphasizing the amount of cake.

an individual cake serving

Uses more descriptive terms to define a single serving of cake.

FAQs

How can I use "a slice of cake" in a sentence?

You can use "a slice of cake" to describe a portion of cake you're eating or desire. For example, "I would like "a slice of cake" please" or "She offered me "a slice of cake" after dinner."

What are some synonyms for "a slice of cake"?

Some synonyms include "a piece of cake", "a wedge of cake", or "a portion of cake". The best choice depends on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a slice of cake" metaphorically?

Using "a slice of cake" metaphorically works best in informal contexts to suggest something is easy or enjoyable. For example, "Winning the game was "a piece of cake"" (meaning it was easy).

Is there a difference between "a slice of cake" and "a piece of cake"?

While they are often used interchangeably, "slice" generally implies a neat, often thinner cut, whereas "piece" is more general and can refer to any detached portion. In most cases, the difference is negligible, but "slice" might be preferred when the cake is cut in a traditional manner.