dash of luck

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dash of luck" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small amount of luck that contributes to a positive outcome. Example: "With a dash of luck, we managed to finish the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Terrorism needs only a small dash of luck to be successful.

The Economist

For both sides, it's a test of nerve, skill and judgment, plus a dash of luck.

The Guardian - Sport

It was only discovered with a dash of luck by Spain's La Sagra Observatory after receding from Earth for a week to a distance of 4.3m kilometres.

The Economist

PITTSBURGH — The Boston Bruins keep talking about fortunate bounces and a dash of luck, insisting the margin between themselves and the Pittsburgh Penguins is narrow.

The New York Times - Sports

Argentina's performance so far appears to be a strategy consisting of Lionel Messi plus 10 other players, with a dash of luck thrown in.

The Guardian - Sport

The Strawberry Hardway (three sevens is known as the "hard way" to 21 in blackjack) has been concocted from tequila, lemon juice, syrup, strawberries, ice, balsamic cream and a dash of luck.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The element that made this race so hard on favorites, dashed so many dreams, was the unpredictable but mandatory element of luck.

The New York Times - Sports

Best of luck.

Harvard University

Lots of luck.

The New York Times

A Best of luck.

The New York Times

Best of luck, man.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dash of luck" to acknowledge the role of chance in achieving a favorable result, especially when other factors like skill and effort are also involved. For example, you might say, "The team's success required skill, hard work, and a dash of luck."

Common error

Avoid attributing outcomes solely to luck when skill, planning, or effort played a significant role. Using "dash of luck" appropriately acknowledges chance without diminishing the importance of other contributing factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dash of luck" functions as a modifier, typically used to qualify the role of chance in a particular event or outcome. As noted by Ludwig AI, it suggests a small but significant amount of good fortune.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Sport

16%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dash of luck" is a commonly used expression to describe a situation where a small amount of good fortune contributes to a positive outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides helpful context. It appears frequently in News & Media and Sport, indicating its broad applicability. When writing, it's crucial to acknowledge the element of chance without overstating its influence, as skill and planning often play a more significant role. Alternatives like "bit of luck" or "touch of luck" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stroke of fortune

This alternative emphasizes a sudden and significant instance of good luck.

hint of serendipity

This alternative suggests a fortunate accident or chance occurrence.

speck of chance

This alternative highlights the small and almost negligible nature of the luck involved.

iota of fortune

This alternative focuses on the extremely small quantity of luck present.

modicum of good fortune

This alternative implies a limited but sufficient amount of luck.

whisper of luck

This suggests a subtle and almost imperceptible element of good fortune.

scintilla of serendipity

This conveys a tiny spark of fortunate coincidence.

tinge of providence

This suggests a slight influence of divine or fateful luck.

drop of good luck

This alternative uses a visual metaphor to emphasize the minimal quantity of luck.

grain of fortune

This alternative highlights the very small and almost insignificant amount of luck involved.

FAQs

How can I use "dash of luck" in a sentence?

You can use "dash of luck" to indicate that a small amount of good fortune contributed to a successful outcome. For example: "The project's success depended on careful planning and a dash of luck."

What's the difference between "dash of luck" and "stroke of luck"?

"Dash of luck" implies a small amount of good fortune, while "stroke of luck"/"stroke of fortune" suggests a more significant and sudden instance of good luck.

What can I say instead of "dash of luck"?

Alternatives to "dash of luck" include "bit of luck", "hint of luck", or "touch of luck". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "dash of luck" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "dash of luck" might be considered slightly informal for some academic or professional contexts. In those cases, consider using a more formal alternative like "element of chance" or "fortuitous circumstance".