a useful bit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a useful bit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small piece of information or advice that is helpful or beneficial in a particular context. Example: "I found a useful bit of information in the article that helped me understand the topic better."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Mr. Dervis said the pockets were a useful bit of ahistorical fashion dash.

The New York Times

Professionals, on the other hand, could very well perceive it as a useful bit of work.

The New York Times

Garden apron The gardener's equivalent of the builder's tool belt, a garden apron is probably as much of a poser's pouch as a useful bit of kit.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That's not to say that other wines don't work too, but that if you're stuck in a restaurant it's a safe bet – a useful bit of know-how to trot out if you're planning to impress on Valentine's night.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

These include a useful bit of kit to help you create the perfect Christmas cocktail and a handy hook (which looks more like a medieval torture device than a harmless kitchen gadget) to help you dish up the turkey.

The Telegraph

There's an excellent performance from a very young looking Kenneth Branagh, a useful bit of stammering from an equally fresh-faced Colin Firth and some pleasant shots of pastoral scenery and old trains gushing steam.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

This is a very useful bit of information to have if you're in a situation where you're running low on power and need to stretch the juice as far as you can.

TechCrunch

"It's a scientifically useful bit of nomenclature and, I think, given the psychological power behind the word planet, it's also more consumable by the general public," Runyon said.

The Washington Post

But a more useful bit of terminology was introduced by John Martin Fischer (1982, 1994).

SEP

Catherine Rampell also has a very useful bit of analysis over at the NYT, showing job impacts.

Huffington Post

It is a very useful bit of therapy, it can be enormously helpful to people to know that their doctor is of the view that they are unable to work.

BMC Family Practice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a useful bit", ensure the context clearly indicates what the bit refers to. For clarity, specify whether it's information, advice, or a physical item.

Common error

Avoid using "a useful bit" without specifying how it is useful. Being specific about the benefit enhances the sentence's impact and provides context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a useful bit" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It typically describes a small piece of information, advice, or even an object that is helpful or beneficial in a given context. Ludwig AI also confirms the sentence correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a useful bit" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something helpful or practical, as validated by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it highlights the value of a specific detail. For clarity, it's important to specify what the "a useful bit" refers to in order to avoid ambiguity and maximize impact. Alternatives like "a helpful piece" or "a valuable tidbit" can be used to add variety while maintaining the core meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a helpful piece

Replaces "useful" with "helpful", emphasizing the assistance provided.

a valuable tidbit

Substitutes "useful bit" with "valuable tidbit", highlighting the worth and small size of the information.

a handy item

Replaces "bit" with "item", suggesting a practical object rather than information.

a practical element

Uses "practical element" instead of "useful bit", focusing on the functionality.

a beneficial component

Changes "useful" to "beneficial" and "bit" to "component", indicating a helpful part of something larger.

a constructive detail

Emphasizes the positive impact of the detail.

a serviceable fragment

Suggests that the bit is functional and small.

an advantageous aspect

Highlights that aspect is favorable.

a worthwhile detail

Indicates that the detail is important and rewarding.

a relevant fact

Focuses on the pertinence of the piece of information.

FAQs

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

You can use "a useful bit" to describe a helpful piece of information or a practical tool. For example, "That's "a useful bit" of advice for new gardeners".

What are some alternatives to "a useful bit"?

Alternatives include "a helpful piece", "a valuable tidbit", or "a handy item", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to specify what the "useful bit" refers to?

While not always mandatory, specifying what the "useful bit" refers to can enhance clarity and prevent ambiguity, especially in formal writing.

In what contexts is "a useful bit" most appropriate?

"A useful bit" is suitable for various contexts, including discussions, articles, and instructions where a small but helpful piece of information or advice is shared. It fits well in both news and lifestyle articles, as well as scientific writing.