an extra something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an extra something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an additional quality, feature, or element that enhances or adds value to something. Example: "The dessert was delicious, but it needed an extra something to make it truly special."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

It's an extra something to shape you as a dancer.

The Guardian

"I think it gave us an extra something.

The Guardian - Film

All hedge-fund managers strive for an edge — an extra something that will help their funds beat the market average.

The New York Times - Magazine

Someone like Kanye West is creative as well, but you get an extra something with Lil Wayne.

The Guardian - Music

I believe a lot of people are in this because they want to get an extra something out of the church".

The New York Times

The talent show that same day took place on schedule, and the emotion of the announcement lent the performances a quality that Mr. Duff, the assistant principal, called "an extra something".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Usually it is referred to as a 'little extra something' that a vendor gives to a customer....an extra doughnut, or an extra little treat.

Huffington Post

It should be something you give in return for a bit extra, something especially good, not a matter of routine, an entitlement".

The Guardian - Business

State-funded religious schools, by contrast, are a clear case of getting a little extra something for free.

The Guardian

Get a nice watch just for a little extra something.

WikiHow

It's when a set of rooms becomes a home, with the addition of a certain extra something.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an extra something" to describe an intangible quality or feature that enhances an experience or product, rather than a concrete item. For example, "The music had rhythm, but lacked that extra something to make it a hit".

Common error

While "an extra something" is generally acceptable, avoid using it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and sophisticated language to convey the specific quality or feature you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extra something" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It refers to an additional, often intangible, quality or feature. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts to denote enhancement or value.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an extra something" is a versatile expression used to describe an additional, often intangible, quality that enhances or adds value to something. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and most commonly found in News & Media sources. While its frequency is uncommon, its usage is generally acceptable across various contexts, though it may be too informal for highly academic writing. Related phrases include ""an added bonus"" and ""a special touch"", offering nuanced ways to convey a similar meaning. When using "an extra something", consider the context and ensure it aligns with the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an extra element

This is a more direct and literal way of expressing the idea of something additional.

an added bonus

This alternative emphasizes the positive and beneficial aspect of the extra element.

a special touch

This phrase highlights the unique and distinctive quality that the extra element brings.

an additional feature

This alternative focuses on the extra element as a functional or characteristic component.

a little something more

This phrase suggests a subtle but significant addition.

a finishing touch

Emphasizes that the extra element completes or perfects something.

an extra advantage

Focuses on the beneficial aspect of having something additional, highlighting the edge it provides.

an additional perk

Similar to "an added bonus", but may imply a more informal or less essential advantage.

a certain je ne sais quoi

This alternative brings a sense of mystery and ineffable quality to the extra element.

an unexpected treat

Highlights the surprise and delight associated with the extra element.

FAQs

How can I use "an extra something" in a sentence?

You can use "an extra something" to describe an additional, often intangible, quality that enhances something. For example: "The dish was good, but it needed "an extra something" to make it truly special."

What are some alternatives to "an extra something"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "an added bonus", "a special touch", or "an additional feature" to express a similar idea.

Is "an extra something" suitable for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "an extra something" might be too informal for highly formal or academic writing. Consider using more precise and descriptive language to convey the specific quality you're referring to.

What does "an extra something" typically refer to?

"An extra something" usually refers to an additional quality, feature, or element that enhances or adds value to something, often in a subtle or intangible way. It is not generally used for physical objects.