a snippet

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a snippet" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a small portion or extract from a larger text, code, or piece of information. Example: "I found a snippet of code that solves the problem I was facing in my project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A snippet of e.e. cummings?

The New York Times - Tech

And here's a snippet from it.

The Guardian

You can hear a snippet by watching our video teaser.

The Guardian - Music

Here is a snippet from Katharine Murphy's story.

The Guardian

Any other director would have shared at least a snippet.

The New Yorker

Here is a snippet of the N.F.L.'s policy on flexible scheduling.

The New York Times

It then passes back a snippet of text that contains a unique token.

The Economist

I can't play you a snippet, because the album doesn't come out til April 17.

The New Yorker

Questlove pulled up a J Dilla recording and played a snippet over the speakers.

The New Yorker

One is that you can't listen to a snippet of a song before downloading it.

The New York Times

(The music for one commercial was a snippet from the theme of "Mad Men").

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a snippet", be specific about the source and context from which it's taken to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a snippet" without providing sufficient context, as this can leave the reader without enough information to understand its significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a snippet" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a determiner and noun combination within a sentence. It identifies a small portion or excerpt from something larger. Ludwig AI indicates its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

37%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a snippet" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that refers to a small portion or extract from a larger whole. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions to introduce a brief piece of information and is appropriate for various contexts. While commonly found in news and scientific sources, it is important to provide sufficient context when using "a snippet" to ensure clarity. Alternatives like "a fragment" or "an excerpt" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Overall, understanding its function and context allows for effective communication across a range of written materials.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an excerpt

Specifically denotes a passage taken from a book, document, or film.

a preview

Highlights an advance showing or small part of something to come.

a fragment

Focuses on the broken or incomplete nature of the portion.

a portion

Suggests a measured amount or share of something.

a piece

Implies a detached portion, often suggesting physical separation.

a bit

Refers to a small, often unspecified amount.

a section

Highlights a distinct part within a larger whole, often organized.

a sample

Implies a representative part used for analysis or testing.

a taste

Metaphorically suggests a brief experience or exposure.

a glimpse

Indicates a brief or fleeting view.

FAQs

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

You can use "a snippet" to refer to a small piece or excerpt of something larger. For example, "Here's "a snippet" of the code I'm working on", or "I read "a snippet" from the article online".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a snippet"?

Alternatives include "a fragment", "an excerpt", "a portion", or "a piece", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "snippet of" or should I use another preposition?

"Snippet of" is the standard and correct usage. For example, "a snippet of code", "a snippet of conversation", etc.

What's the difference between "a snippet" and "a sample"?

While both refer to a small part of something, ""a snippet"" generally implies a short extract of text or code, whereas "a sample" usually refers to a representative part used for testing or analysis.