an extra chin

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an extra chin" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a physical feature, often in a humorous or informal context, referring to additional fat or skin under the chin area. Example: "After the holidays, I noticed I had developed an extra chin from all the festive feasting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He has an extra chin, thinner hair.

The New Yorker

The Guardian rounded up a number of the snarky tweets, which poked fun at The Australian's inappropriate focus on sex appeal with comments such as, "Short & dumpy with an extra chin, she nevertheless wrote books novels & articles & was occasionally allowed 2 appear on telly".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

I have the burdensome genetic legacy of Eastern Europe to contend with: the extra chin, the supple midsection and the receding hairline all too common of the mid-30s men in my family".

The New York Times

So now I'm on my own, with nothing and nobody else to blame for my extra chins.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When Goddard is having his photograph taken, one kid says: "Bet you love having your photograph taken, don't you, Sir" and Goddard fires back: "Not since I grew these extra chins – I used to be thin and handsome once, but ex-PE teachers tend to widen" and the boy beams.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

What do you guys think of my extra chins?

Huffington Post

"Even now, I'm super critical of my age when I'm in drag and noticing those fucking fine lines, and those wrinkles, and those folds, and the extra chins.

Vice

Leave a little trickle of fake blood trickling down your chin for an extra creepy "just-drank-someone's-blood" effect.

WikiHow

The silhouette of the 9-3 -- raked front and rear glass, wedgelike shoulder lines and a jutting chin -- gets an extra dose of drama in the Vector package, with its ground-hugging ride height, deep valances below the bumpers, 17-inch alloy wheels and flared side sills.

The New York Times

Then let the mischief begin: with an extra roll here, and a double chin there.

The New York Times

Someone who totally "gets" art will thoughtfully examine the piece, typically rubbing the bottom of his/her chin to get an extra pensive look.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical appearance in writing, consider the context and audience. Using "an extra chin" might be appropriate in informal or humorous contexts, but "submental fullness" would be more suitable for professional or medical writing.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "an extra chin" in formal or professional settings. Opt for more neutral or clinical terms like "double chin" or "excess submental fat" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extra chin" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a sentence or clause. Ludwig indicates this phrase is correct and usable, referring to a physical attribute.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an extra chin" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe the appearance of excess fat or skin under the chin. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While not a formal term, it's frequently found in news and media, as well as informal contexts. When writing, consider your audience and the level of formality required; "double chin" or medical terms like "submental fullness" might be more appropriate in professional settings. Remember to tailor your language to suit the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a double chin

Replaces "extra" with "double", a more common and direct term for the same physical feature.

chin with additional fat

Very similar to the original phrase, simply rephrasing the concept.

a prominent double chin

Highlights the visibility of the double chin.

excess chin fat

More clinical and descriptive, focusing on the fat content of the chin area.

chin with excess tissue

Describes the chin by focusing on the presence of excessive tissue.

submental fullness

A formal, medical term for the appearance of extra tissue under the chin.

increased submental fat

Another medical term, specifying increased fat below the chin.

fleshy chin

Describes the chin as being fleshy, implying extra weight.

a full lower face

Broader term that encompasses the chin area as part of the overall facial appearance.

a heavy jawline

Describes the jawline area as being heavy, which can include the chin.

FAQs

What does "an extra chin" mean?

The phrase "an extra chin" is a colloquial way to describe the appearance of having excess fat or skin beneath the chin, often referred to as a double chin.

Is it acceptable to use the term "an extra chin" in formal writing?

No, "an extra chin" is generally considered informal. In formal or professional contexts, it's better to use more neutral terms like "double chin" or "submental fat".

What are some other ways to describe "an extra chin"?

Besides "double chin", you could also use phrases like "excess chin fat" or "full lower face" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I avoid developing "an extra chin"?

Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help prevent the development of a double chin. Certain facial exercises may also help to tighten the muscles in the chin and neck area.