a word of this

USAGE SUMMARY

"a word of this" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is generally used to introduce something, as in the sentence "A word of this: Always make sure to double-check your work before submitting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Should anyone believe a word of this?

The New Yorker

I haven't exaggerated a word of this.

The Guardian

I couldn't remember a word of this.

The Guardian - Books

Their lawyer had not mentioned a word of this.

The New York Times

Not a word of this, of course, will be repeated.

The New York Times

"I don't believe a word of this he said.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Before you start reading this, a word of warning: this column is about the iPhone.

The New York Times

A word of caution, this observation is based on the datasets analyzed in this study and should not be generalized to other scenarios.

CPT: Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology

A word of advice: this is a book best read with a glass of wine in hand.

The New York Times - Books

A word of warning: this short dress/trouser combo only works if the trouser leg is fitted.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A word of caution: this is only Sorrentino's second English-language movie, and the first was This Must Be The Place.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a word of this" to emphasize disbelief or skepticism towards a statement, especially in journalistic or argumentative writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a word of this" too frequently, as it can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your expressions to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a word of this" functions as an intensifier to express disbelief, skepticism, or the need for secrecy. Ludwig examples show it used in contexts where the speaker doubts the veracity of a statement or wants to emphasize confidentiality.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a word of this" is a common idiom used to express disbelief or emphasize the need for secrecy. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, noting its frequent appearance in news and media. While versatile, it's essential to consider the register and avoid overuse. Alternatives such as "any mention of this" or "not a peep about this" can provide nuance and prevent repetition. By understanding its function and context, writers can effectively use "a word of this" to convey skepticism or enforce confidentiality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

any mention of this

Focuses on the act of mentioning rather than believing or understanding.

a single syllable of this

Emphasizes the smallness of the information being conveyed.

not a peep about this

Highlights the complete absence of communication about the subject.

not a whisper of this

Suggests a hidden or secret nature of the information.

don't breathe a hint of this

Focuses on maintaining secrecy and preventing any disclosure.

not a shred of truth in this

Emphasizes the lack of veracity in the statement.

none of this is credible

Directly challenges the believability of the information.

I don't credit this at all

Highlights the speaker's personal disbelief.

do not disclose this information

Stresses the importance of keeping the information confidential.

keep this strictly confidential

Underscores the need for absolute secrecy regarding the matter.

FAQs

How can I use "a word of this" in a sentence?

You can use "a word of this" to express disbelief, warn someone to keep a secret, or introduce a cautionary note. For example, "I don't believe "a word of this" he said" or "Don't breathe "a word of this" to anyone".

What's the difference between "a word of this" and "any of this"?

"A word of this" typically implies disbelief or a need for secrecy, while "any of this" is more general and can refer to understanding, remembering, or being affected by something. For example, "I couldn't remember "a word of this"" versus "Did you understand "any of this"?"

What can I say instead of "I don't believe a word of this"?

Alternatives include "I doubt that's true", "I don't buy it", or "I'm skeptical". Each conveys a similar sense of disbelief. Depending on the context, phrases like "I find that hard to believe" or "I have my doubts" can also be used.

Is it appropriate to use "a word of this" in formal writing?

While "a word of this" is grammatically correct, it can sound informal depending on the context. In formal writing, consider using more direct expressions of disbelief or caution, such as "This claim lacks credibility" or "This information should be treated as confidential".