accessory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "accessory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is added to something else to make it more useful, versatile, or attractive, often in the context of fashion or equipment. Example: "She wore a beautiful necklace as an accessory to her elegant dress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Warning: a vote is not a personal accessory to show the world who you are.

The Guardian - Opinion

Also wearing a black bandanna, the accessory of the festival.

The Guardian - Music

The RAC began selling such an accessory, called Advance, last year, while in the US a company called Automatic provides similar details for US vehicles.

The Guardian - Tech

discohealthclub.com 8. Rebounding There was a point sometime in the mid-80s when a mini-trampoline, or rebounder, was the fitness accessory du jour.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Upon its release, Pulp Fiction was so instantly influential that it unwittingly became the accessory to dozens of cinematic crimes.

The Guardian - Film

At the very least Villa will look the part on the day after Sherwood took it upon himself to organise their blue Paul Smith suits and he has even thought of an accessory to help with the tears of joy or pain at the final whistle.

The Guardian - Sport

Britain's booming rich have a taste for many things: fine wines, yachts, country mansions – but this season's must-have accessory is a political party.

The Guardian - Opinion

Maitland is also being prosecuted for two counts of being an accessory before the fact to misconduct in public office and for giving false and misleading evidence to Icac.

The Guardian

For now, the company is using its accessory range as a way to introduce the brand to key markets and create a foothold for further expansion at a later date.

The Guardian - Tech

He took full responsibility for his actions in that case, Irwin said, claiming he was only an accessory.

The Guardian

A growing number of accessory makers are making systems which hook into cars' computer-controlled engine control units (ECUs) to report data about trips.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical contexts, use "accessory" for components that add functionality to a device or system.

Common error

Avoid using "accessory" to describe essential components. "Accessory" implies something non-essential that supplements or enhances the main item.

Linguistic Context

The word "accessory" primarily functions as a noun, referring to an item that supplements something else, often for added convenience or aesthetic appeal. It can also function as an adjective, describing something that is supplementary or subordinate. Ludwig examples show it used both ways.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "accessory" is a versatile word that functions primarily as a noun, denoting an item that enhances or supplements something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news, business, and technical fields. Understanding its role as a non-essential addition is crucial for accurate usage, distinguishing it from essential components. Related terms like "supplement" and "adjunct" can serve as effective alternatives depending on the specific context. In summary, "accessory" describes a supporting element that adds value or style to a main item, making it an essential part of language for describing enhancements across diverse subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

supplement

Refers to something that completes or enhances something else.

adjunct

Implies something added to another thing but not essential to it.

attachment

Denotes something connected to or part of something larger.

embellishment

Focuses on enhancing aesthetic appeal.

appendage

Suggests a part that is added or attached in a subordinate way.

add-on

Describes an extra component added to increase functionality.

complement

Highlights the enhancing or completing aspect.

ornament

Specifically refers to decorative items.

extra

Simply means something additional.

feature

Indicates an additional attribute or aspect.

FAQs

How is "accessory" typically used in a sentence?

Typically, "accessory" is used to describe something that enhances or completes another item, such as "The scarf was the perfect accessory for her outfit".

What's a good alternative to the word "accessory"?

Depending on the context, alternatives like "supplement", "adjunct", or "attachment" can be used.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the term "accessory"?

The term "accessory" is appropriate in contexts related to fashion, technology, and crime, describing items that complement, enhance, or assist in different ways.

What is the difference between an "accessory" and a "component"?

An "accessory" is an optional item that enhances the main item, whereas a "component" is a necessary part that is essential for the main item to function.