double portions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "double portions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to receiving or serving twice the usual amount of something, often in a context related to food or blessings. Example: "After the successful harvest, the villagers celebrated with double portions of their favorite dishes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Last time she gave us double portions.

The New Yorker

Despite his repeated efforts, they continue to send him double portions of everything else.

The New Yorker

But the ice cream parlor did well as they gave double portions for a nickel The writer was teken there several times by a friend.

The New Yorker

Maybe all the best places are doing this now, but I hadn't run into it before: Passengers are allowed -- even encouraged -- to order half portions of a dish if they want or double portions if they're in the opposite mood.

The New York Times - Travel

This is followed by a ritual washing of the hands and the breaking of bread, two loaves of bread (commemorating the double portions of manna described in Exodus) being placed before the breaker of bread at each Sabbath meal.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Try to make double portions for a few meals before you leave, and freeze for your arrival back home.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Perhaps she can order a double portion of the kale.

The New York Times

For her trouble, she has to pay a double portion of Social Security and Medicare taxes.

The New York Times

Must-have A double portion of liquor: I love the stuff.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As did Marmaduke Scarlet's KL noodles (or hokkien mee), which were sweet, rich and utterly addictive (I polished off a double portion without even noticing).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Asked at a campaign meeting what to do about school menus for students who don't eat pork, he suggested giving them "a double portion of fries".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "double portions" when you want to emphasize receiving or providing twice the standard or expected amount, particularly in the context of food, rewards, or blessings.

Common error

Avoid using "double portions" in contexts where a simple increase or addition is meant, rather than a literal doubling. Using "more" or "additional" may be more appropriate if the quantity is not exactly twice the standard amount.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "double portions" primarily functions as a noun phrase. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it usually refers to an amount that is twice the standard serving, often in contexts related to food or metaphorical blessings. The Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "double portions" is a grammatically sound noun phrase that means twice the normal amount. Ludwig confirms that it is typically used in the contexts of food, reward or biblical manna. Although the phrase is correct, more formal options like "twice the amount" or "increased quantity" may be better suited for academic or professional settings. While "double portions" is generally well-understood, remember to consider the context and audience when deciding whether to use this phrase, particularly noting the importance of avoiding literal doubling when this is not what is meant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extra servings

Emphasizes additional helpings beyond the standard amount.

generous helpings

Highlights the abundance and liberality of the servings.

larger portions

Focuses on the increased size of the servings.

ample servings

Stresses the sufficiency and abundance of the servings.

double measure

Implies a quantity that is twice the standard measurement.

twice the amount

Directly indicates a quantity that is two times the usual amount.

supersized portions

Indicates portions are significantly larger than standard.

overfilled plates

Focuses on the visual of plates filled beyond the normal level.

second helpings

Refers to the act of taking an additional serving.

plentiful portions

Indicates a large and satisfying quantity.

FAQs

How can I use "double portions" in a sentence?

You can use "double portions" to describe receiving twice the usual amount of food, effort, or blessings. For example, "The restaurant offered "double portions" on Tuesdays" or "She received "double portions" of praise for her hard work".

What phrases are similar to "double portions"?

Similar phrases include "extra servings", "generous helpings", or "larger portions". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "double portions" appropriate for formal writing?

While "double portions" is generally understood, it might be more appropriate to use phrases like "twice the amount" or "increased quantity" in formal writing, depending on the specific context. These alternatives may convey a more professional tone.

What is the origin of the phrase "double portions"?

The phrase "double portions" likely originates from culinary contexts, where it literally means twice the standard serving size. It can also be used metaphorically, drawing on the idea of abundance or receiving an exceptional share, as exemplified by the reference to manna in Exodus where "double portions" were provided on Fridays.