favorite saying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "favorite saying" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a particular phrase or quote that someone particularly enjoys or finds meaningful. Example: "My favorite saying is 'The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.'"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I've got a favorite saying that I tell them they should remember," he told me.

The New Yorker

The latter is Mr. Robins's favorite saying, of the printable variety.

The New York Times

"He'd always say, 'It's 88 and sunny.' That was his favorite saying".

The New York Times

For his favorite saying, Mr. Ryan offered: "Live On, Live Long".

The New York Times

All Julia Child lovers have their favorite saying from her shows.

The New York Times

That was my English teacher's favorite saying: Robert the Bruce and his stupid spider".

The New Yorker

But she said a memory of her father's favorite saying stopped her: "Barnum saw you coming".

The New York Times

"His favorite saying is 'Don't start the fight, finish it,' " Woytek told me recently.

The New Yorker

Tom was and remains a preeminent example of his favorite saying, "it is better to be born lucky than rich".

The New York Times

"Great wines don't make statements, they pose questions," is a favorite saying.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Buddhism is also the underpinning for Goldsmith's third-favorite saying, after "Life is good" and "Be happy now": "Let it go".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When attributing a "favorite saying" to someone, provide context about why it resonates with them. This adds depth and makes the quote more meaningful to the reader.

Common error

Ensure that you accurately attribute the "favorite saying" to its correct originator. Double-check the source to avoid spreading misinformation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "favorite saying" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. It introduces a quotation that holds special meaning or significance to an individual. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "favorite saying" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to introduce a quote or motto that holds personal significance. It is commonly found across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media, and its neutrality allows for comfortable use in both formal and informal settings. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is well-established and easily understood. When using "favorite saying", remember to accurately attribute the quote and provide context to enhance its meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pet phrase

Indicates a saying that is particularly liked and frequently used by someone, sometimes to the point of being repetitive.

go-to phrase

Highlights the habitual and readily available nature of the saying in conversation or thought.

treasured saying

Emphasizes the emotional value and personal significance attached to the saying.

cherished motto

Emphasizes the motivational aspect of the saying, implying it guides someone's actions or beliefs.

signature phrase

Suggests a saying closely associated with a person, almost as if it were their trademark.

preferred expression

Focuses on the habitual use of specific words but does not convey the emotional connection like "favorite saying".

oft-repeated quote

Highlights the frequency with which the saying is used, emphasizing its repetitive nature.

usual saying

Simple and neutral, indicating a saying commonly used by someone, without implying strong affection.

catchphrase

Often associated with public figures or fictional characters, indicating a saying that has gained wide recognition.

well-known adage

Implies that the saying is a recognized piece of wisdom or a common expression of truth.

FAQs

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

You can use "favorite saying" to introduce a quote or phrase that someone particularly likes or often uses. For example, "His "favorite saying" was, 'Always look on the bright side of life'."

What are some alternatives to "favorite saying"?

Alternatives include "preferred expression", "cherished motto", or "pet phrase", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "most favorite saying"?

While understandable, "most favorite" is often considered redundant because "favorite" already implies a high degree of preference. Sticking with just ""favorite saying"" is generally preferred.

What's the difference between a "favorite saying" and a 'catchphrase'?

A ""favorite saying"" is a personal preference, while a 'catchphrase' is a saying that has become widely recognized and associated with a particular person or character, often in popular culture.