as smooth a ship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as smooth a ship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is exceptionally smooth or well-functioning, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The new software runs as smooth a ship, making our workflow much more efficient."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Rollins on SVU, and she runs as smooth a ship as possible with drunks belting out their favorites.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Aim for as smooth a surface as you can.

WikiHow

"We want something smoother, as smooth as a lake.

The New York Times - Arts

My knuckles were as smooth as a baby's.

The New Yorker

Its west face is as smooth as a tombstone.

The Guardian - Travel

In order to make the transition as smooth as possible, Apple could ship the iPhone 7 with a Lightning-to-headphone adaptor as well as Lightning EarPods.

TechCrunch

Reagan came across as smooth, genial, with a silky voice.

The New Yorker

The guy was as smooth as shit through a goose.

Vice

Previously worked as a ship's captain.

BBC

As a bloke he's probably just as smooth.

Vice

As smooth as his beer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "as smooth a ship" to describe a system, organization, or process that operates efficiently and without problems. It implies excellent management and seamless execution.

Common error

Avoid using "as smooth a ship" when describing something that inherently involves friction or difficulty. The metaphor works best when highlighting unexpected ease or efficiency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as smooth a ship" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun (often implied) to describe its quality or state of operation. It conveys a sense of seamlessness, efficiency, and lack of complications.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as smooth a ship" is a grammatically correct and usable expression used to describe something that operates with exceptional smoothness and efficiency. It functions as an adjectival phrase and is found across diverse sources, although its occurrence is relatively rare. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and suggests that while appropriate in various contexts, it's less common in strictly formal writing. When seeking alternatives, consider "runs like clockwork" or "operates seamlessly" to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

functions flawlessly

This emphasizes the absence of errors or defects in the operation.

executes perfectly

This underlines the precision and accuracy of the operation, with no deviations from the intended outcome.

is a well-oiled machine

This likens something to a machine that is functioning at peak efficiency due to proper maintenance and lubrication.

flows seamlessly

Similar to "operates seamlessly", this emphasizes a smooth, uninterrupted progression.

operates seamlessly

This highlights the absence of any noticeable interruption or difficulty in the process.

moves effortlessly

This emphasizes the lack of strain or difficulty in the movement or operation.

glides smoothly

This evokes a sense of ease and lack of friction in the operation, similar to skating or gliding.

runs like clockwork

This implies a high degree of precision and regularity in operation, focusing on mechanical reliability.

runs efficiently

This focuses on the effectiveness and economy of the operation, with minimal waste or effort.

works like a charm

This suggests that something is working very effectively and effortlessly, often with a hint of magic or luck.

FAQs

How can I use "as smooth a ship" in a sentence?

You can use "as smooth a ship" to describe a process or organization that is running very efficiently and without problems. For example: "The new project management system is running "as smooth a ship".".

What are some alternatives to "as smooth a ship"?

Alternatives to "as smooth a ship" include phrases such as "runs like clockwork", "operates seamlessly", or "functions flawlessly".

Is "as smooth a ship" grammatically correct?

Yes, "as smooth a ship" is grammatically correct, although it's an idiomatic expression. The Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "as smooth a ship"?

It is appropriate to use "as smooth a ship" in contexts where you want to emphasize the efficiency and lack of problems in a system, process, or organization. It can be used in both formal and informal settings, though it is less common in strictly formal academic or scientific writing.