a smash

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a smash" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is a great success or very popular, often in the context of entertainment or events. Example: "The new movie was a smash, breaking box office records in its opening weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Sport

Music

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It wasn't a smash.

The New Yorker

"It's a smash!" Hermansen declared.

The New Yorker

The show was a smash.

The New Yorker

"And it was a smash".

The New York Times - Arts

Evolution” is a smash hit!

University of California, Berkeley

'Roseanne' is a smash.

The Washington Post

The concert was a smash.

Princeton University

Should be a smash.

The New York Times

It's a smash".

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Not a smash-mouth Smackdown.

The New York Times

They've got a smash-mouth offensive line.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing outcomes, consider if the situation suggests an energetic or forceful implication, as "a smash" carries more weight than simply "successful".

Common error

Avoid using "a smash" in highly formal or business writing. Opt for more neutral terms like "a success" or "a significant achievement" in these settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a smash" functions primarily as a predicate nominative or adjective phrase, typically following a linking verb (e.g., "is", "was"). It signifies that something has achieved significant success or made a substantial impact. Ludwig AI also confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

14%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Sport

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a smash" is widely used to describe something highly successful, especially in the realms of entertainment, sports, and media. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. While predominantly neutral in register, its use should be moderated in more formal contexts where terms like "significant achievement" might be preferable. The phrase's strength lies in conveying not just success, but also the excitement and impact associated with it. Top sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ the phrase, confirming its relevance in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a great success

Focuses on the outcome of being successful, omitting the energetic or forceful implication.

a huge hit

Replaces "smash" with "hit", emphasizing popularity and positive reception.

a resounding success

Adds emphasis to the success being complete and undeniable.

a roaring success

Emphasizes the enthusiastic and loud approval the subject receives.

a blockbuster

Typically used for movies or events that are highly successful and popular.

a triumph

Highlights the achievement and victory aspect of the success.

a knockout

Suggests a striking and overwhelming success, similar to a knockout in sports.

a sensation

Implies widespread excitement and interest surrounding the success.

a breakthrough

Emphasizes the innovative and significant nature of the success.

a wild success

Highlights the unexpected and extreme nature of the success.

FAQs

How can I use "a smash" in a sentence?

You can use "a smash" to describe something that is very successful or popular. For example, "The new play was "a smash", selling out every night".

What's a good alternative to "a smash"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a great success", "a huge hit", or "a resounding success".

Is it appropriate to use "a smash" in formal writing?

While "a smash" is widely understood, it's generally more suitable for informal or creative writing. In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a significant achievement" or "a remarkable success".

What does "a smash and grab" mean?

"A smash and grab" refers to a quick theft, often involving breaking a window to steal something. It's different from simply calling something "a smash", which means it's successful.