could use a bard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could use a bard" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a need for someone who can tell stories, entertain, or provide creative input, often in a whimsical or metaphorical context. Example: "This gathering feels a bit dull; we could use a bard to liven things up with some tales and music."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We could use a bard.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Floors could use a vacuum.

The New York Times

I could use a lesson".

The New York Times - Sports

Gillette could use a lift.

Forbes

LG could use a boost.

Forbes

Astra could use a boost.

Forbes

You could use a marble.

WikiHow

In addition, needle muscle biopsies of the vastus lateralis were performed using a Bard Biopsy instrument (Bard, Covington, GA) with a 14-gauge needle as described [12].

Human Pathology

Sano et al. reported a simpler jejunostomy technique using a Bard Button without the Witzel tunnel[ 4].

BMC Gastroenterology

Well, it transpires that our Bard of the Yukon first saw the name Sam McGee on a receipt when he was working as a bank teller in Whitehorse, fell in love with it, and asked the worthy Sam if he could use it in a poem.

Huffington Post

Most of the 13th-century bards used a conventional diction that was consciously archaic in its vocabulary, grammar, and idiom and incomprehensible to anyone uneducated in poetry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could use a bard" when you want to express the need for someone who can bring creativity, storytelling, or entertainment to a situation, often in a slightly whimsical or literary way.

Common error

Avoid using "could use a bard" in overly formal or serious contexts where a more straightforward expression would be more appropriate. The phrase has a specific, somewhat playful connotation, and overuse can make your writing sound affected.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could use a bard" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating a need for someone who possesses the skills of a storyteller, poet, or entertainer. According to Ludwig, it is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English. It suggests that the situation would benefit from creative input or a touch of artistry.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

20%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

20%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could use a bard" expresses a need for someone who can bring creativity, storytelling, or entertainment to a situation. Ludwig confirms that it is grammatically correct. Although it's relatively rare, this phrase is best suited for informal or creative contexts where a touch of whimsy is appropriate. The linguistic analysis indicates that while "could use a bard" functions as an idiomatic expression, its register leans towards informal due to its somewhat literary nature. Consider more common alternatives like "could use a storyteller" in formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

would benefit from a storyteller

Replaces the term "bard" with a more common synonym, focusing on the storytelling aspect.

could do with a poet

Substitutes "bard" with "poet", emphasizing the lyrical and artistic aspects.

would appreciate a creative mind

Focuses on the need for creativity and imagination, rather than a specific role.

could use some artistic flair

Highlights the need for artistic talent and style.

would gain from a wordsmith

Emphasizes the skill of using words effectively and creatively.

needs a gifted orator

Focuses on the need for someone skilled in public speaking and persuasion.

requires an entertainer

Highlights the need for someone who can provide amusement and enjoyment.

could use a morale booster

Shifts the focus to needing someone who can improve spirits and motivation.

would benefit from a skilled performer

Highlights the need for someone with strong performance abilities.

could use someone to spin a yarn

Focuses on needing someone who can tell an engaging story.

FAQs

How can I use "could use a bard" in a sentence?

You can use "could use a bard" to express a need for someone who can bring creativity, storytelling, or entertainment. For example, "This presentation "could use a bard" to make it more engaging."

What's a more common alternative to "could use a bard"?

While "could use a bard" has a unique flavor, you could use more common alternatives like "could use a storyteller" or "could use some creative input" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is "could use a bard" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "could use a bard" is generally more appropriate for informal or creative writing. In formal contexts, consider more direct alternatives like "needs a creative consultant" or "would benefit from a skilled communicator".

What does it imply to say someone "could use a bard"?

Saying someone ""could use a bard"" implies that they would benefit from having someone who can bring artistry, storytelling, and a touch of magic to a situation, often to make it more engaging or memorable.