a string of light

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a string of light" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a series of lights, often in a decorative or atmospheric context, such as during celebrations or in art installations. Example: "The garden was beautifully adorned with a string of light that twinkled in the evening breeze."

✓ Grammatically correct

Literature

Descriptive Writing

Figurative Language

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Every so often, a string of light threaded across the Manhattan Bridge, the train shuttling back and forth on its nightly commute.

Princeton University

The drink prices were high and the toilets dire but as soon as I clambered up the stairs to a large dark room sporadically lit with a string of light bulbs I felt I was home.

The Guardian - Opinion

They had a slightly larger yard than most of their crammed-in neighbors, so they had closed it off with sheets of rusty corrugated metal, and there, at four long wooden tables beneath a string of light bulbs which dangled from a second-story clostra-block window, they served up to thirty customers per night, if the turnover was fast.

The New Yorker

He later reclaimed his own name, earning credits in a string of light romantic comedies.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

He homed in on a dusky-blue silk cotton and pawed at a string of light-blue sequins coiled on top of it.

The New Yorker

He also published work under various pen names: as Patrick Ruell, he wrote a string of light-hearted thrillers stuffed with literary references; as Dick Morland, he wrote the dystopian novel Albion!

The Guardian - Books

A string of lights between two poles hung overhead, illuminating the scrapes on her legs that still hadn't healed.

The Washington Post

"I'll never have to untangle a string of lights again," he told us with a satisfied chuckle.

The New York Times

4. Ribbons stream romantically from chandeliers that are decorative by day; for an evening party, add a string of lights.

The New York Times

Inside, herbs, baskets, farm tools and a string of lights shaped like chili peppers hung from the rafters.

The New York Times - Style

A string of lights takes on the appearance of an after-hours art installation at — the opposite of a gallery opening — a closing.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a string of light" when describing a series of lights arranged linearly, either for decorative or functional purposes. The phrase is suitable for both literal and figurative contexts.

Common error

While "a string of light" is appropriate in descriptive writing, consider using more precise terminology like "LED array" or "light strip" in technical documentation to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a string of light" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a linear arrangement of light, whether literal or figurative. Ludwig provides various examples of its usage in descriptive contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a string of light" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that functions as a noun phrase, typically used for descriptive purposes. According to Ludwig, the phrase evokes a visual image of light arranged linearly, whether for decoration or guidance. While the phrase is appropriate in a variety of contexts, it is more prevalent in news and media, as well as academic sources. Alternative phrases such as "a line of lights" or "a chain of lights" can provide similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. When using this phrase, consider the intended context and choose the most appropriate wording to ensure clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sequence of light

Replaces "string" with "sequence", emphasizing the ordered nature of the light.

a chain of lights

Substitutes "string" with "chain", suggesting a connected series of light sources.

a stream of light

Uses "stream" to evoke a continuous flow of light.

a line of light

Replaces "string" with "line", focusing on the linear arrangement of the light.

a ribbon of light

Employs "ribbon" to suggest a wider, flowing band of light.

a thread of light

Substitutes "string" with "thread", emphasizing the thinness of the light.

a row of lights

Uses "row" to focus on the ordered arrangement of multiple lights.

a file of lights

Substitutes "string" with "file", suggesting lights arranged one after another.

a garland of lights

Employs "garland" to emphasize a decorative arrangement of lights.

a festoon of lights

Uses "festoon" to highlight a decorative and celebratory display of lights.

FAQs

How can "a string of light" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a string of light" to describe decorative lighting, such as "The patio was illuminated by "a string of light" draped across the trellis" or to describe a series of lights observed in nature, such as "A string of light appeared on the horizon, signaling the approach of ships".

What phrases are similar to "a string of light"?

Similar phrases include "a line of lights", "a chain of lights", or "a stream of light", each offering slightly different nuances in describing the arrangement or flow of light.

Is it correct to say "a string of lights" instead of "a string of light"?

Yes, "a string of lights" is also correct and commonly used, especially when referring to multiple individual light sources connected together. "A string of light" is more appropriate when referring to light as a continuous phenomenon, not necessarily individual bulbs.

What is the difference between "a streak of light" and "a string of light"?

A streak of light typically refers to a single, transient beam or flash, whereas "a string of light" implies multiple lights arranged in a linear fashion.