a sprinkle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sprinkle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small amount of something, often in the context of food or decoration. Example: "She added a sprinkle of cinnamon to the apple pie for extra flavor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Just a sprinkle.

The Guardian

Perhaps a sprinkle of Gomorrah".

The Guardian - Sport

So did a sprinkle of poppy seeds.

The New York Times - Food

Add a sprinkle of wine, if needed.

The New Yorker

Rauschenberg and a sprinkle of Tinguely.

The New York Times - Arts

Rolled oats with walnuts, banana, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Harvard University

Add a sprinkle of curry powder and cook until fragrant.

The New York Times - Magazine

Add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon before serving.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A sprinkle of tropical islands float off its Mediterranean shores.

Independent

Serve on top, with a sprinkle of extra paprika.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Tonight: Mostly cloudy, with a sprinkle or light shower possible.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing visual elements, consider using "a sprinkle" to indicate a scattered or delicate distribution, such as "a sprinkle of stars in the night sky".

Common error

While "a sprinkle" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal writing. Opt for more precise terms like "a small quantity", "a trace amount", or "a minimal addition" for professional or academic contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sprinkle" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a modifier indicating a small quantity of something. Ludwig's examples confirm this usage, frequently associating it with additions to food or abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sprinkle" is a versatile and commonly used expression to indicate a small amount of something. As noted by Ludwig, it functions primarily as a noun phrase and is often used to describe additions to food or abstract concepts. While the phrase is widely acceptable across various contexts, it is most prevalent in news and media sources, with a neutral to informal register. When choosing alternatives, consider options like "a dash" or "a pinch" depending on the desired nuance. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, be mindful of overuse in highly formal or academic writing, opting for more precise terms when necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dash

Emphasizes a very small quantity, often used for seasonings or flavorings.

a pinch

Highlights the act of taking a small amount between the fingers, similar to "a sprinkle" in quantity.

a touch

Implies a light application or addition, often used for abstract qualities or artistic elements.

a smattering

Suggests a scattered and uneven distribution of a small quantity.

a dusting

Conveys a light coating or covering, often used for powders or fine particles.

a scattering

Similar to "a sprinkle" in suggesting a random distribution of small particles.

a hint

Implies a subtle presence or suggestion, often used for flavors or aromas.

a smidge

Informal term for a very small amount, similar in quantity to "a sprinkle".

a soupçon

French term for a very small amount, often used in culinary contexts.

a trace

Indicates a minimal amount or barely detectable presence.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sprinkle" to describe adding a small amount of something, like "a sprinkle of salt" or "a sprinkle of humor". It implies a light and even distribution.

What are some synonyms for "a sprinkle"?

Alternatives to "a sprinkle" include "a dash", "a pinch", "a touch", or "a hint", depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

While generally acceptable, "a sprinkle" might be too informal for highly formal or academic writing. Consider using more precise terms like "a small quantity" or "a trace amount" in those contexts.

What's the difference between "a sprinkle" and "a scattering"?

"A sprinkle" suggests a more even and gentle distribution, while "a scattering" implies a more random and possibly uneven distribution of small particles.