a wisp of good luck

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wisp of good luck" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or fleeting instance of good fortune or luck. Example: "After weeks of hard work, she finally caught a wisp of good luck when she received the job offer she had been hoping for."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But for a wisp of good luck, those books would not have been published.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

I have had great mentors, a good education and a generous sprinkling of good luck.

The New York Times

That proved a stroke of good luck.

The New York Times

"He had a lifetime of good luck and a moment of bad luck," Alderson said.

The New York Times - Sports

A praying mantis is a sign of good luck.

The New York Times

STRIKING gold is generally considered a slice of good luck.

The Economist

A tree of good luck, bad luck and creativity, it is now a part of us.

The Guardian

"It's a question of good luck or bad luck," he said.

The New York Times

He launched into a discussion of good luck.

The New York Times - Sports

But Mr. Bush has also had a pile of good luck.

The New York Times

The dolphin in Greece is a sign of good luck.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a wisp of good luck" to describe situations where the positive outcome is unexpected or minimal, but still significant. This can add a touch of whimsy to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a wisp of good luck" to describe major positive events or accomplishments. This phrase is best suited for minor, almost imperceptible instances of good fortune.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wisp of good luck" functions as a noun phrase, specifically describing a small or subtle instance of good fortune. Ludwig confirms this phrase is usable in written English. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, adding color to narratives.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a wisp of good luck" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that describes a small or fleeting instance of good fortune. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, noting its suitability for expressing subtle or delicate moments of positivity. While not exceedingly common, its use is appropriate across various writing contexts, predominantly in News & Media. Consider alternative phrases like "a touch of fortune" or "a hint of luck" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a touch of fortune

Replaces 'wisp of good luck' emphasizing a subtle and gentle aspect of positive fortune.

a hint of luck

Emphasizes the subtlety and almost imperceptible nature of the good luck.

a trace of good fortune

Highlights a very small and delicate amount of good luck.

a small measure of good luck

Focuses on the limited quantity of good luck received.

a fleeting moment of luck

Highlights that good luck is very temporary.

a glimmer of hope

Shifts from luck to the hope that luck might bring success.

a fortunate break

Focuses on an interruption of good luck that helps the situation.

an auspicious sign

Frames good luck as a positive indication or omen.

a lucky break

Simplifies the concept to a more direct expression of fortunate interruption.

a stroke of serendipity

Emphasizes the accidental and fortunate nature of the good luck.

FAQs

How can I use "a wisp of good luck" in a sentence?

You can use "a wisp of good luck" to describe a small or subtle instance of good fortune. For example: "After a series of setbacks, she finally encountered "a wisp of good luck" when her project was unexpectedly approved".

What can I say instead of "a wisp of good luck"?

You can use alternatives like "a touch of fortune", "a hint of luck", or "a small measure of good luck" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a wisp of good luck" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a wisp of good luck" might be more suitable for informal or creative writing. In formal contexts, consider using more direct phrases like "a fortunate opportunity" or "a stroke of good fortune".

What's the difference between "a stroke of good luck" and "a wisp of good luck"?

"A stroke of good luck" implies a significant and impactful instance of good fortune, whereas ""a wisp of good luck"" suggests a much smaller, almost fleeting moment of good fortune.