a useful

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a useful" can be used in written English.
You can use "a useful" when you want to describe something as having a beneficial purpose or value. For example: "The online tutorial provided a useful resource to help me understand the concepts better."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But used alongside other resources the HDR provides a useful, holistic look at development".

The Guardian

This is a useful move".

The Guardian

Technology is a useful ally.

The Economist

Japan provides a useful lesson.

The Economist

This is a useful idea.

The Economist

Anyway, a useful lesson.

The New York Times

One year out is a useful landmark.

The Guardian

She has been a useful diplomatic bauble.

The Economist

Robot rescuers would be a useful invention.

The Economist

That would indeed be a useful start.

The Economist

The tie is a useful signalling device.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a useful" to describe tools, methods, or resources that provide a clear benefit or solve a specific problem.

Common error

While "a useful" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "advantageous" or "beneficial" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a useful" primarily functions as an adjective phrase. It modifies a noun to indicate that the noun provides a benefit or serves a practical purpose. This is consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a useful" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe something that provides a benefit or serves a purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequency. While versatile, it's best to consider the context and audience, opting for more sophisticated synonyms in highly formal settings. This phrase is most frequently found in news media and formal business contexts, highlighting its broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a helpful

A more general and common alternative to 'useful'.

a valuable

Stresses the importance and worth of something.

a beneficial

Highlights the positive impact or advantage provided.

an effective

Emphasizes the capability to produce a desired result.

an advantageous

Replaces 'useful' with a more formal synonym, emphasizing benefit.

a worthwhile

Indicates that something is deserving of the time or effort spent.

a practical

Focuses on the applicability and functionality of something.

an instrumental

Suggests a key role or significant contribution.

a productive

Highlights the ability to generate results or outputs.

a handy

Implies convenience and ease of use.

FAQs

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

You can use "a useful" to describe something that provides a benefit or serves a purpose. For example, "This tool is a useful addition to our workflow."

What are some alternatives to using "a useful"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a helpful", "a practical", or "a valuable".

Is it always appropriate to use "a useful" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider using more sophisticated synonyms like "advantageous" or "beneficial" in highly formal contexts for a more refined tone.

What's the difference between "a useful" and "an advantageous"?

"A useful" generally indicates something that serves a purpose, while "an advantageous" emphasizes that something provides a benefit or puts you in a favorable position.