a trace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a trace' is correct and can be used in written English.
It typically means a small or faint amount or sign of something. For example, "I still have a trace of hope that our team will win the game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not a trace.

The New York Times - Sports

Not even a trace.

The Guardian

Not a trace remains.

The New York Times

Most sank without a trace.

The Economist

Not a trace of mud.

Independent

It always leaves a trace".

Independent

It was a trace amount.

The New York Times - Sports

He disappeared without a trace".

The New York Times

They're poetic, a trace of a trace".

The Guardian - Arts

A trace of perfume.

The Guardian

Without A Trace?

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a trace" to subtly indicate a small quantity or remaining sign of something, rather than a large or obvious amount. This adds nuance to your description.

Common error

Avoid using "a trace" when a more precise term would better convey the degree or nature of what you're describing. For example, instead of "a trace of anger", consider "a flicker of anger" or "a hint of anger" for more vivid imagery.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a trace" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or a component of a larger noun phrase. Ludwig shows examples where it signifies a minimal amount or indication of something. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

10%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a trace" is a grammatically sound and very common expression used to denote a minimal amount or indication of something. Ludwig's examples show it frequently appears in News & Media and other diverse contexts, maintaining a neutral register. Ludwig AI confirms its adherence to standard grammar. When using "a trace", ensure it appropriately conveys a small quantity and avoid overuse when a more specific descriptor would be more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hint

Replaces "trace" with a synonym indicating a subtle suggestion or indication.

a vestige

Emphasizes the remaining part of something that no longer exists.

a glimmer

Suggests a faint sign of hope or possibility.

a shadow

Implies a vague or indistinct presence.

a suggestion

Indicates a slight indication or clue.

a touch

Highlights a slight amount or influence.

a suspicion

Suggests a slight feeling or belief without proof.

a suspicion

Suggests a small amount of distrust or uncertainty.

a scintilla

Emphasizes an extremely small amount.

a whisper

Conveys a very faint or subtle indication.

FAQs

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

You can use "a trace" to indicate a small amount or sign of something. For example, "There wasn't "a trace" of evidence at the crime scene" or "She had "a trace" of an accent".

What are some alternatives to "a trace"?

Some alternatives to "a trace" include "a hint", "a vestige", "a glimmer", or "a shadow" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "not a trace"?

Yes, "not "a trace"" is a common and correct idiom used to emphasize the complete absence of something.

What's the difference between "a trace" and "an indication"?

"A trace" suggests a very small or subtle sign, while "an indication" implies a more noticeable sign or clue. "A trace" is often used when something is barely detectable, whereas "an indication" suggests something more easily observed.