cast a spell

USAGE SUMMARY

"cast a spell" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a magical or mysterious process, or to convey the idea of something taking effect quickly and powerfully. For example, "When the sun set, the beautiful landscape cast a spell over the observers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He's cast a spell.

The New York Times

She has cast a spell on biographers.

The New Yorker

But what she actually does is cast a spell.

The New York Times - Books

It isn't, but not because Sorcee has cast a spell.

The New York Times - Arts

Still, these married magicians know how to cast a spell.

The New York Times

The memory of these impromptu concerts cast a spell.

The Guardian - Music

It became easy to understand why Blavatsky cast a spell.

The New York Times - Arts

But on Tuesday night "Darkness and Light" cast a spell.

The New York Times - Arts

At Jil Sander and Armani, porn never cast a spell.

The New York Times

This silly thing somehow evokes the power of music to cast a spell.

The New York Times - Arts

She's 110 years old but has cast a spell to make herself a sensual 52.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cast a spell" when you want to convey a sense of wonder, enchantment, or a powerful, almost magical influence. It's particularly effective in describing captivating performances, beautiful scenery, or charismatic personalities.

Common error

Avoid using "cast a spell" in contexts where a negative or manipulative influence is implied. While it can suggest a powerful effect, it generally carries a positive or neutral connotation of enchantment and captivation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cast a spell" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often used metaphorically to describe a captivating or enchanting influence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Examples show it describing the effects of performances, places, or even people.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

14%

Arts

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Science

21%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cast a spell" is a versatile idiom used to describe something that captivates or exerts a powerful, enchanting influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used. Its metaphorical function allows it to be applied across various contexts, most notably in News & Media and the Arts. While it can be used in more formal settings, it is most commonly found in descriptive and narrative content. Consider alternatives like "enchant" or "mesmerize" for slight nuances in meaning. Remember to be mindful of its connotation, as it generally implies a positive or neutral form of enchantment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cast a glamour

Focuses on creating an alluring and often deceptive appearance.

mesmerize

Suggests a hypnotic or trancelike effect on someone.

work magic

Suggests achieving impressive results, often through skillful or clever means.

captivate

Emphasizes holding someone's attention and interest completely.

fascinate

Highlights the power to intensely interest and attract someone.

enchant

Focuses on charming and delighting someone, often with beauty or grace.

weave a charm

Emphasizes the delicate and artful creation of an attractive or persuasive quality.

hold sway over

Implies a dominating influence or control over someone or something.

hold under a trance

Highlights the aspect of captivating someone to such a point as if they are in a trance.

exert influence

A more general term for having an effect on someone or something.

FAQs

How can I use "cast a spell" in a sentence?

You can use "cast a spell" to describe something that enchants or captivates. For example, "The dancer's performance "cast a spell" on the audience" or "The beautiful scenery "cast a spell" over us".

What can I say instead of "cast a spell"?

You can use alternatives like "enchant", "captivate", or "mesmerize" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "cast a spell" in formal writing?

While "cast a spell" is more common in creative or descriptive writing, it can be appropriate in formal contexts if used carefully to convey a sense of powerful influence or enchantment. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "cast a spell" and "under a spell"?

"Cast a spell" refers to the action of influencing or enchanting someone or something, while "under a spell" describes the state of being influenced or enchanted. For example, "The witch "cast a spell"," but "The prince was "under a spell"".