bolt of cloth

USAGE SUMMARY

"bolt of cloth" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to a large amount of fabric. For example, "I need to buy a bolt of cloth to make curtains for my new apartment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

For example, raw cotton is a crude good, a bolt of cloth is an intermediate good and a suit of clothes is a finished good.

The New York Times

He got back a handsome bolt of cloth.

The New Yorker

Galliano had no time to order fancy fabric; he cut every dress from the same bolt of cloth.

The New Yorker

The two are so similar, Ms. Sheldon said, that they could have been cut from the same bolt of cloth.

The New York Times - Arts

One of Mr. Winston's favorites is a bolt of cloth printed with Zodiac-themed variations on the Kama Sutra.

The New York Times

She showed Mrs. Lasar a bolt of cloth on which her brother Iqbal had embroidered a delicate pattern.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

These bolts of cloth were to become materials of expression.

Independent

Tillett and colleague Brian Goodin were holding up bolts of cloth.

The New Yorker

We were offered bolts of cloth to have them made.

The New Yorker

A new vocabulary takes shape amid the bolts of cloth.

The New York Times - Magazine

Eventually the subject lines changed to "re: thumb-stack of pancakes" and "re: bolts of cloth".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing historical contexts involving textiles or trade, use "bolt of cloth" to evoke a sense of traditional materials and craftsmanship.

Common error

Avoid using "bolt of cloth" when referring to small pieces of fabric. A "bolt" typically implies a substantial quantity, so consider terms like "scrap of fabric" or "piece of cloth" for smaller amounts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bolt of cloth" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving as a direct object, subject complement, or object of a preposition. It typically identifies a specific quantity and form of fabric, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Formal & Business

23%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bolt of cloth" is a common noun phrase used to describe a large roll of fabric, often used in tailoring, historical contexts, and commercial descriptions. Ludwig's AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. While versatile, it's important to use it accurately, reserving it for substantial quantities of fabric rather than small scraps. Its frequency is considered common, with prominence in the contexts of News & Media, Formal & Business, and Wiki sources. When a synonym is needed, terms like "roll of fabric" or "length of material" can be effective alternatives depending on the specific scenario.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

roll of fabric

This alternative refers to fabric rolled up for storage or sale, similar to a "bolt of cloth".

length of cloth

This term is a more straightforward synonym that refers to a section of fabric, like a "bolt of cloth".

fabric roll

This is a more concise way of saying "roll of fabric", akin to a "bolt of cloth".

cloth roll

This term is a shorter version that means a roll of fabric or "bolt of cloth".

textile roll

This term focuses on the texture and material of rolled fabric, similar to a "bolt of cloth".

length of material

This describes a specific portion of textile, like a "bolt of cloth" but less specific about the form.

piece of textile

This alternative refers to a segment of cloth, like a "bolt of cloth" but emphasizes the textile aspect.

fabric length

This term highlights the dimension and material nature, resembling a "bolt of cloth".

textile piece

This variation focuses on the material composition, similar to a "bolt of cloth".

material piece

This is a broader term referring to a segment of material, similar to a "bolt of cloth" but not exclusive to fabric.

FAQs

How can I use "bolt of cloth" in a sentence?

You can use "bolt of cloth" to describe a large roll of fabric, as in "The tailor purchased a "bolt of cloth" to make several suits".

What's a good substitute for "bolt of cloth"?

Alternatives include "roll of fabric", "length of material", or "fabric roll" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "bolt of cloth" when referring to a small piece of fabric?

No, "bolt of cloth" typically refers to a large roll of fabric. For smaller pieces, use terms like "piece of fabric" or "scrap of cloth".

What is the difference between "bolt of cloth" and "piece of cloth"?

A ""bolt of cloth"" refers to a large, often standard-sized roll of fabric, while "piece of cloth" is a more general term for any portion of fabric, regardless of size.