dust

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "dust" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a noun to refer to tiny particles of matter that are found in the air, as well as the material made of these particles that accumulates in a thin layer on surfaces or objects. For example: "The dust on the windowsill was disturbed by the passing breeze."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Related: Boom and dust: uncertain future for the mining town run by Rio Tinto "There were so many emotions and mostly it boiled down to feeling stressed, and the obvious place to come was the practice," Chalmers tells Guardian Australia.

The Guardian

Revisionist remakes of classic children's films are all the rage at the moment, as studios seek to dust off properties for fresh audiences.

The Guardian - Opinion

There's certainly an air of the sepulchral on debut single Holland (on paradYse Records) with its refrain: "Into dust we will all return," but it's a timeless and eerily comforting kind of meditation, on faith, loss and redemption, much like abolition-era hymnals – haunting and healing in equal measures.

The Guardian

Sharadamma puts her books into a bag and fastens her shoes, cleaning off some dust in the process.

The Guardian

On top of the human pressure, climate change is turning much of the north and east of Chad to dust, leading to failed harvests and creating the potential for conflict over water and arable land.

The Guardian

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 9.20pm BST21:20 18 min: Wow! Making a run from midfield, Fauzi Ghoulam turns on the afterburners and leaves Mesut Ozil in his dust as he gallops up the inside-left and latches on to a pass from Soudani.

The Guardian - Sport

Children play in the dust; they have no toys.

The Guardian - Opinion

When the dust settles at the start of 2017, Toronto will be one more mixed-use residential-retail complex richer.

The Guardian

7 While the bagels rise, preheat the oven to 180C/350F/gas mark 4, bring a large pan of water to the boil and dust a large baking tray generously with semolina or fine polenta.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Dust the pudding with icing sugar and serve on warm plates with softly whipped cream.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I like the idea of something very small, whether it be dust or a mark, something seemingly unspectacular in many situations, and then being able to build a narrative from that.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "dust" in a metaphorical sense, consider the connotations of decay and insignificance it carries. Choose a synonym like "debris" or "fragments" if a less negative implication is desired.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "dust" with the archaic verb form "doth." "Dust" refers to fine particles, while "doth" is an old-fashioned third-person singular present indicative of "do".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "dust" is as a noun, referring to fine, dry particles of matter. It can also function as a verb, meaning to remove dust. As Ludwig AI states, the word is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "dust" is a versatile term primarily functioning as a noun, denoting fine particles of matter, though it can also serve as a verb meaning to clean. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is grammatically correct and widespread. The semantic analysis reveals related terms like "fine particles", "grime", and "soot", each carrying slightly different connotations. While generally neutral in register, its metaphorical applications can evoke notions of decay or insignificance. Examples from The Guardian illustrate its prevalence in describing environments and conveying abstract ideas. Remembering not to confuse it with "doth" and considering the subtle implications of decay when using it metaphorically are key to effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fine particles

Focuses on the physical composition of dust, emphasizing its nature as small pieces of matter.

minute grains

Highlights the small size and granular nature of dust particles.

powdery residue

Emphasizes the texture and what's left over when something disintegrates or settles.

grime

Indicates a dirty or filthy accumulation of dust and other substances.

soot

Refers specifically to the black, carbonaceous particles resulting from incomplete combustion.

ashes

Describes the remnants after something has been burned, often fine and powdery.

dirt

A more general term for any unclean or impure substance, including dust.

debris

Encompasses scattered fragments, wreckage, or refuse, which may include dust.

erosion particles

Highlights the process of gradual destruction or diminution, with dust as a byproduct.

fleeting existence

Relates to the metaphorical use of dust to represent transience and impermanence.

FAQs

How can I use "dust" in a sentence?

The word "dust" can be used as a noun referring to fine particles, such as "The furniture was covered in dust". It can also be used as a verb meaning to remove dust, as in "I need to dust the shelves".

What are some synonyms for "dust"?

Depending on the context, synonyms for "dust" include "fine particles", "grime", "soot", or "ashes".

When is it appropriate to use "dust" metaphorically?

Metaphorically, "dust" can represent insignificance, decay, or the transient nature of life. For example, phrases like "turn to dust" or "bite the dust" use "dust" to symbolize death or failure.

What is the difference between "dust" and "dirt"?

"Dust" typically refers to fine, dry particles, while "dirt" is a more general term encompassing soil, mud, or any unclean substance. Dust is usually finer and more airborne than dirt.