an appropriate nip of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an appropriate nip of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small amount of something, often in the context of a drink or a taste, suggesting moderation or suitability. Example: "After a long day, I like to enjoy an appropriate nip of whiskey to unwind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Mr. Jeavons declared the guacamole sufficiently spicy, with an appropriate nip of cilantro.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A week later, I poured a nip of each.

The New York Times

Behind the ambulance, one of the paramedics is taking a quick nip of oxygen.

The New Yorker

A small nip of the same spirit used in the cake would go well alongside it.

The New York Times - Food

Oh, a long nip of Finest Vintage Character before bed adds coziness on a cold night.

The New York Times

I e-mailed my friend in Connecticut and told him to have a celebratory nip of Courvoisier and retire.

Forbes

Imagine drinking a cold nip of boozy Bartlett pears!

Huffington Post

Hot grease bubbles may jump out of pan for a little nip of your arms.

WikiHow

A nip of brandy and a slice of pie afterwards was also quite nice.

Huffington Post

Back at their desks, do they take a nip of Scotch or unwrap an illegal cigar?

The New York Times - Food

Now it's a Smuttynose winter brewery ale or a wee tiny nip of Macallan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an appropriate nip of", consider the context and ensure that "appropriate" reflects the situation's norms or the user's intentions. For instance, "an appropriate nip of whiskey" may be suitable for relaxation but not before operating machinery.

Common error

Avoid using "an appropriate nip of" in situations requiring precise measurements or quantities. The phrase suggests a small, somewhat imprecise amount, which may not be suitable for scientific or technical contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an appropriate nip of" functions as a quantifier modifying a noun. It specifies a small and suitable amount of something, often implying a degree of moderation or suitability. This aligns with the Ludwig examples where it refers to small tastes or amounts deemed fitting for the situation.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an appropriate nip of" is a phrase used to describe a small and suitable quantity of something, often with connotations of enjoyment or measured consumption. It is grammatically correct, as affirmed by Ludwig, though relatively rare in occurrence. Predominantly found in news and media, its neutral tone makes it versatile, though less suited for strictly formal or scientific contexts. When writing, consider if the implicit imprecision aligns with your intent; otherwise, alternatives like "a suitable sip of" might better serve your needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a suitable sip of

Replaces "nip" with "sip", emphasizing the act of drinking a small amount.

a fitting taste of

Substitutes "nip" with "taste", highlighting the sensory experience of a small portion.

a judicious amount of

Replaces "nip" with "amount", adding a sense of careful consideration.

a modest bit of

Uses "bit" instead of "nip", conveying a slightly more casual tone while maintaining the idea of smallness.

a reasonable measure of

Substitutes "nip" with "measure", suggesting a controlled and proportionate quantity.

an adequate splash of

Replaces "nip" with "splash", often used in the context of liquids.

a measured dram of

Uses "dram" as a more specific alternative to "nip", particularly for alcoholic beverages, while suggesting careful measurement.

a well-considered dash of

Replaces "nip" with "dash", indicating a small amount added for flavor or effect.

a tolerable intake of

Changes the focus to consumption, suggesting an acceptable small quantity.

a sensible fragment of

Substitutes "nip" with "fragment", implying a small piece or portion that is considered rational or wise

FAQs

How can I rephrase "an appropriate nip of"?

You can try alternatives like "a suitable sip of", "a fitting taste of", or "a judicious amount of", depending on the specific context.

In what situations is it suitable to use the phrase "an appropriate nip of"?

This phrase is suitable when referring to a small, often enjoyable, quantity of something, like a drink or spice, where moderation and suitability are implied.

What does "an appropriate nip of" imply about the quantity being referred to?

It suggests a small, possibly measured, amount. It implies that the quantity is not excessive and is suitable for the purpose or occasion.

Is "an appropriate nip of" a formal or informal expression?

The expression is relatively neutral, leaning slightly towards informal. It's appropriate for general conversation and writing, but may not be suitable for highly formal or technical contexts.