glint

USAGE SUMMARY

"glint" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe the brief, bright reflection of light off a shiny surface. For example: "The sun shone off the lake, creating a glint of light that sparkled across the water."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In editing this new collection, I've noticed the occasional glint of mutual influence and dialogue between them.

The Guardian - Books

The response is at first a bashful smile, before a glint in the eye and a grin as wide as the Great Rift Valley.

The Guardian - Sport

As the tourist drives away she doesn't move, her eyes narrow as he disappears into the dazzling sunshine, and now they glint with tears.

The Guardian

Yannis has a habit of making grand statements that sound vaguely preposterous in print, yet are delivered in person with earnest enthusiasm and more than a glint of knowing humour.

The Guardian - Music

Then, starlight glancing off an ocean on the planet's limb will produce a glint that the same light glancing off a dull, rocky surface would not.

The Economist

Mr Maliki's apparent willingness to curb the militias is only a glint of light.

The Economist

If there is a Volkswagen Way, it is to be determined, diligent and attentive to detail, with a glint of ruthlessness.Still, plenty could go wrong.

The Economist

That glint would give the ocean's existence away.This trick has actually been tried, using a probe bound for the moon to observe glints from Earth's oceans.

The Economist

This sounds vague, but has a glint of steel underneath.

The Economist

"It's flashy and from afar," says Mr Malalo, who took advantage of glint giveaways when shooting at the enemy.

The Economist

Mr Ashbery does an admirable job of translating this word and its derivatives variously as "dazzle", "glitter", "sparkle" or "glint", capturing some of the brightness of Rimbaud's lines.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "glint" to describe a brief, bright flash of light, especially reflected off a surface. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate a fleeting glimpse or hint of something.

Common error

Avoid using "glint" to describe a constant or prolonged shine. "Gleam", "luster", or "radiance" are more appropriate for sustained brightness.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "glint" is a noun, referring to a brief flash of light. However, it can also function as a verb, meaning to flash briefly. As Ludwig AI explains, it correctly describes the bright reflection of light off a shiny surface.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

34%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "glint" is a versatile term primarily functioning as a noun to describe a brief flash of light. It can also act as a verb meaning to flash briefly. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable word. Usage is common in news and media, as well as scientific writing. When writing, use "glint" to describe a fleeting reflection of light, avoiding its use for sustained brightness. Related terms include "gleam", "sparkle", and "glimmer". Remember that as illustrated by Ludwig's examples, "glint" can also figuratively represent a subtle hint or emotion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Glimmer

Similar to "glint" but often implies a softer, less intense light.

Sparkle

Suggests a lively and bright reflection of light.

Gleam

Implies a steady, radiant light.

Shimmer

Indicates a wavering or fluctuating light.

Flash

A sudden, brief burst of light.

Twinkle

Suggests a flickering, intermittent light.

Hint

Figuratively refers to a slight indication or suggestion.

Trace

Indicates a barely perceptible amount or sign.

Flicker

Implies an unsteady or wavering light or emotion.

Glisten

Suggests a wet or oily shine.

FAQs

How can I use "glint" in a sentence?

You can use "glint" to describe a brief flash of light, as in, "I saw the "glint" of metal as he raised the gun." It can also describe a hint of emotion, like "a "glint of humor" in his eyes."

What words are similar to "glint"?

Similar words include "gleam", "sparkle", "glimmer", and "flash". The best choice depends on the specific type of light reflection you want to describe.

Is it correct to say "glint in his eyes"?

Yes, "glint in his eyes" is a common expression. It typically suggests a hidden emotion, intelligence, or mischievousness.

What's the difference between "glint" and "glitter"?

"Glint" refers to a brief flash or reflection of light, while "glitter" describes a scattering of small, bright reflections, often from many surfaces at once.