box of chocolate

USAGE SUMMARY

"box of chocolate" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a container that holds a quantity of chocolates. Example: I surprised my girlfriend with a beautiful box of chocolates on Valentine's Day.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Two pounds of chocolate and a box of chocolate pastilles.

The New Yorker

At Christmas, she dropped off a selection box of chocolate bars for me.

The New Yorker

Within moments, he extended his arm, and a box of chocolate chip cookies.

The New York Times

Khawla put an expensive box of chocolate cereal into the trolley.

The Guardian

But one day, a box of chocolate may even lower blood pressure or bolster the immune system.

The New York Times

What's to eat?" She then grabbed a box of chocolate chip cookies and headed to the den to watch TV.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

"I almost wanted to pull out my Republican cookies," she said, referring to a box of chocolate-chip cookies adorned with Bush's likeness.

The New Yorker

Nobody else in the family seemed excited either, so the curious thing was how quickly a box of chocolate-covered cherries seemed to disappear.

The New York Times - Tech

After the workout, the boys run upstairs to Mr. Clyde's carpeted sunroom, where they descend like locusts on a box of chocolate-chip cookies -- then keep burning more calories.

The New York Times - Style

How about a box of chocolates instead?

The New York Times - Travel

How big a box of chocolates, precisely?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "box of chocolate" in writing, consider the specific type of chocolate and the context. For example, "a box of chocolate truffles" is more descriptive than simply "a box of chocolate".

Common error

Avoid using "box of chocolate" simply as a cliché, especially in romantic contexts. Instead, focus on the specific emotional impact or sensory experience the chocolate provides.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "box of chocolate" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a direct object, subject complement, or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is commonly used to describe a container holding chocolates, functioning as a noun.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Wiki

13%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "box of chocolate" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a container holding chocolates. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, its usage is often neutral in tone and serves to describe a physical object, often associated with gifts or treats. Related phrases include "chocolate assortment" and "chocolate selection", offering slight nuances in meaning. When writing, considering the specific type of chocolate and avoiding clichés can enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chocolate assortment

Focuses on the variety within a chocolate selection, rather than the container.

assorted chocolates

Highlights the variety of chocolates, omitting the packaging aspect.

chocolate selection

Emphasizes the act of choosing chocolates from a collection.

collection of chocolates

Highlights the assembled group of chocolates, regardless of packaging.

chocolates in a gift box

Emphasizes the presentation and purpose of the chocolate as a gift.

chocolate gift box

Specifies that the chocolate is intended as a present, adding a layer of purpose.

chocolate bonbons box

Specifically refers to bonbons rather than a general assortment of chocolates.

chocolate truffle box

Specifically refers to truffles rather than a general assortment of chocolates.

selection of chocolate bars

Specifically refers to chocolate bars, a specific type of chocolate product.

chocolate confectionery box

Uses a more formal term for chocolate, indicating a slightly different register.

FAQs

How can I use "box of chocolate" in a sentence?

You can use "box of chocolate" to describe a gift, a treat, or a symbol of affection. For example: "He gave her a "box of chocolate" for Valentine's Day".

What are some alternatives to "box of chocolate"?

Alternatives include "chocolate assortment", "chocolate selection", or "chocolate gift box", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a chocolate box" instead of "box of chocolate"?

While "chocolate box" might be understood, ""box of chocolate"" is the more standard and grammatically correct phrasing in English.

What's the significance of a "box of chocolate" in literature and film?

A ""box of chocolate"" often symbolizes the unpredictability of life, as famously depicted in the movie Forrest Gump, where the quote "Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get" highlights the element of surprise and chance.