a useful addition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a useful addition" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is usually used to describe something that is added to something else and brings value or usefulness to it. Example: The new software update is a useful addition to the existing system, as it allows for better data analysis.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Since citric acid is partly used up during fermentation tartaric acid will be a useful addition for very low acidity fruits; it is also a good yeast nutrient.

The Guardian

A useful addition is that Humin no longer requires a Facebook account to use the app.

TechCrunch

That is a useful addition to climate science.

The Economist

Vijay has been a useful addition in opener Gautam Gambhir's enforced absence.

The Guardian - Sport

A useful addition to a genre that prizes brain over brawn.

The Guardian - Music

That could be a useful addition to the law, but it is not enough.

The New York Times

The manure is a useful addition to the compost heap, too.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But the 23-year-old forward would be a useful addition for Arsenal or Tottenham Hotspur.

The Guardian - Sport

Perhaps a Tardis may be a useful addition to the press centre.

The Guardian - Sport

Water features can also be a useful addition, if there is space.

The Guardian

Some library staff support learners with their studies, and find undertaking a Preparing to Teach course a useful addition.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something new that enhances an existing system or process, use "a useful addition" to highlight its beneficial impact. For example, 'The new feature is a useful addition to the software, streamlining workflow and increasing efficiency'.

Common error

Avoid using "a useful addition" when the added element is only marginally helpful or its usefulness is questionable. Overstating its value can diminish your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a useful addition" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or an object. As Ludwig AI confirms, it designates something advantageous that has been included or appended. Examples showcase its role in identifying beneficial elements within various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

27%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a useful addition" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that serves to emphasize the beneficial nature of something that has been added. As verified by Ludwig AI, its primary function is to highlight the positive impact or value that the addition brings. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it maintains a neutral register appropriate for both professional and general communication. Alternatives such as "a valuable asset" or "a helpful complement" offer similar meanings with slight nuances in emphasis. When using this phrase, ensure that the addition genuinely enhances the existing element to avoid overstating its importance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valuable asset

Replaces 'addition' with 'asset', shifting the focus to the inherent worth of the thing being added.

a helpful complement

Substitutes 'addition' with 'complement', emphasizing that it completes or enhances something else.

a worthwhile contribution

Replaces 'addition' with 'contribution', highlighting the act of adding something beneficial.

an advantageous inclusion

Replaces 'useful' with 'advantageous' and 'addition' with 'inclusion', stressing the positive benefit of incorporating something.

a beneficial component

Changes 'addition' to 'component', indicating that it's a contributing part that is helpful.

a practical improvement

Shifts the focus to the result of the addition, highlighting that it makes something more practical.

an effective enhancement

Similar to 'practical improvement', focusing on the positive change or augmentation.

a welcome supplement

Replaces 'addition' with 'supplement', suggesting something that completes or enhances.

a strategic insertion

Implies that the addition was carefully planned for a specific advantage.

a positive influence

Emphasizes the impact of the addition as being favorable and impactful.

FAQs

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

You can use "a useful addition" to describe something that enhances or improves something else. For example, "The new training program is "a useful addition" to the company's onboarding process".

What can I say instead of "a useful addition"?

You can use alternatives like "a valuable asset", "a helpful complement", or "a worthwhile contribution" depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "useful addition"?

While additions are generally intended to be helpful, specifying ""a useful addition"" emphasizes the practical benefit and positive impact of the new element. It highlights that the addition brings tangible value.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "a useful addition"?

Avoid using ""a useful addition"" if the added item or feature is not genuinely beneficial or its usefulness is limited. Ensure the addition provides clear value or improvement to justify the phrase.