favorite phrase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "favorite phrase" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific phrase that someone particularly likes or enjoys. Example: "My favorite phrase is 'Carpe Diem' because it reminds me to seize the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"No more" became his favorite phrase.

The New Yorker

("I get it" is a favorite phrase).

The New Yorker

Do you have a favorite phrase or word?

The New Yorker

In fact, a favorite phrase of his is "boring is better".

The New York Times

"You just have to suck it up," she'll say, using a favorite phrase.

The New York Times

When Johnny Itliong thinks about his father, his favorite phrase, "By golly!" leaps to mind.

The New York Times

A favorite phrase of David Simon's is "You can't make this shit up".

The New Yorker

Writers favorite phrase in Roget's book is "balmy in the crumpet".

The New Yorker

Happy to use another favorite phrase, he replied that I was stating the obvious: "No.

The New York Times

Whenever someone raised a voice, or started an argument, he uttered his favorite phrase, "You're salty".

The New York Times - Sports

Professor Goldberg occasionally indulges in jargon; plot imaging is a favorite phrase.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "favorite phrase", consider the context and ensure it aligns with the overall tone and register of your writing. A more formal equivalent might be "preferred expression" in certain academic or professional settings.

Common error

While "favorite phrase" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overuse in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise or sophisticated alternatives like "recurring motif" or "leitmotif" to demonstrate nuanced understanding and enhance credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "favorite phrase" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a particular saying or expression that is liked or frequently used. Ludwig confirms this phrase is correct and frequently employed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "favorite phrase" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression across various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to describe a saying or expression that someone particularly likes or uses often. While broadly applicable, remember to adjust your vocabulary to use more suitable terms like "preferred expression" in formal or academic writing. The related phrases provide alternative ways to express this concept, ensuring your writing remains engaging and precise. Remembering these nuances and recommendations will enhance your writing skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

phrase of choice

Highlights the speaker's deliberate selection of the phrase from other possibilities.

preferred saying

Focuses on the act of saying rather than the complete phrase, emphasizing the speaker's choice.

go-to expression

Highlights the habitual use of the phrase in various situations.

pet saying

Suggests a fond and perhaps slightly idiosyncratic attachment to the phrase.

most used expression

Quantifies the preference by focusing on frequency of use.

signature line

Implies the phrase is strongly associated with a particular person.

cherished saying

Adds a sense of emotional value and personal significance.

catchphrase

Emphasizes the phrase's popularity and widespread use, often in media or branding.

oft-repeated phrase

Highlights how often the phrase is used, without necessarily implying fondness.

regular utterance

Indicates a habitual or routine use of the phrase.

FAQs

How can I use "favorite phrase" in a sentence?

You can use "favorite phrase" to describe a saying or expression that someone particularly likes or uses often. For example, "His "favorite phrase" was 'actions speak louder than words'.

What are some alternatives to "favorite phrase"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "preferred expression", "go-to saying", or "pet phrase" instead of "favorite phrase".

Is it acceptable to use "favorite phrase" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "favorite phrase" may sound too informal for some academic or professional contexts. Consider using a more formal alternative like "preferred expression" or "recurring motif".

What's the difference between "favorite phrase" and "catchphrase"?

"Favorite phrase" refers to a personal preference, while "catchphrase" describes a phrase that has become widely known and associated with a particular person or brand. A "favorite phrase" is something you personally like to say, while a "catchphrase" is something everyone recognizes.