as smooth as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as smooth as a" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is very smooth, often in a metaphorical sense, such as a surface or a process. Example: "The new software update made the application run as smooth as a well-oiled machine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My knuckles were as smooth as a baby's.

The New Yorker

Its west face is as smooth as a tombstone.

The Guardian - Travel

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

The New York Times - Arts

Through the telescope, the crescent sun looked as smooth as a cardboard cutout.

The New York Times

But the transition for pedestrians avoiding these monstrosities is about as smooth as a badger's crotch.

The Guardian - Opinion

Under the flashing strobe lights, his cheeks glow blue, as smooth as a skating rink.

The New Yorker

Few would argue, however, that the progress has been as smooth as a Healy finish.

The Guardian - Sport

The transition has not been as smooth as a fast break.

The New York Times - Sports

It was where the golf courses were plastic green and as smooth as a supermodel's cheek.

The New York Times

But on the morning of the race, the water was as smooth as a tabletop.

The New York Times

Macaroni and cheese was appropriately crusty and lumpy and as smooth as a toboggan run.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as smooth as a" to vividly describe a texture, process, or transition that lacks friction or difficulty, enhancing clarity and imagery.

Common error

While effective, "as smooth as a" can become repetitive. Vary your descriptions by using more specific comparisons or sensory details to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as smooth as a" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun by describing its texture or quality. It is used to emphasize the absence of roughness or difficulty, creating a vivid image. As evidenced by Ludwig, the phrase is frequently employed in descriptive contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

12%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as smooth as a" is a common adjectival phrase used to describe something lacking roughness or difficulty. Ludwig AI indicates that its grammatical status is correct, and it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it's essential to avoid overuse and consider more specific and descriptive language for formal contexts. Common comparisons include "silk", "glass", and "butter", effectively conveying the desired sensation of smoothness. While it holds a neutral connotation, remember to vary the writing to avoid sounding repetitive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as seamless as possible

Emphasizes the lack of disruption or difficulty in a process.

as effortless as can be

Highlights the ease and lack of strain involved.

with no rough edges

Focuses on the absence of imperfections or difficulties.

flowing seamlessly

Describes a continuous and uninterrupted movement or progression.

as polished as glass

Uses a different material to illustrate a high degree of smoothness.

like silk

Compares the subject to the feel of a silky fabric.

easy like Sunday morning

Emphasizes a simple and carefree nature.

without a hitch

Describes the absence of problems or setbacks.

running like clockwork

Implies regularity and precision.

as even as possible

Focuses on the uniformity of a surface or process.

FAQs

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

Use "as smooth as a" to describe something that has a seamless texture or process. For example, "The new operating system runs "as smooth as a hot knife through butter"".

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

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "seamless", "effortless", or "fluid" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "as smooth as a" in formal writing?

While "as smooth as a" is widely understood, consider more precise and formal language for academic or professional contexts. Instead, try "The process was "seamless"" or "the transition was "effortless"".

What kind of comparisons work well with "as smooth as a"?

Common comparisons include things known for their lack of texture, friction, or difficulty. Examples are: "as smooth as silk", "as smooth as glass", or "as smooth as butter".