glinting

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "glinting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that reflects light in a sparkling or shining manner, often used in a poetic or descriptive context. Example: "The glinting surface of the lake caught the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing display of colors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These sought-after ouzels live among the rusting fragments of mining, the glinting fluorspar and rocky clefts of this once industrious valley.

The Guardian

Five colossal cranes still tower over it, glinting as the sun sets behind the hills, but work is virtually finished, contracts exchanged and keys handed over.

The Guardian - Sport

She was the only photographer I ever wanted to sit in on an interview I was doing, not just because she could recede into invisibility, hands folded in her lap, placid as Miss Marple, or stealthily circle the room, eyes glinting, but also because she disarmed people.

The Guardian - Arts

Women applauding politely, wearing hats and long gloves to shield their pale skin from the glinting sun.It was August 18th, the official start of campaigning for Japan's general election on August 30th.

The Economist

THE insignia of the Household Cavalry glinting from his cufflinks, Sam Instone draws a series of elaborate parallels between the financial-services industry and a military campaign.

The Economist

From horseback it is possible to see new metal roofs on the meanest shacks, glinting in the sunlight.Every few kilometres there is a speculative settlement.

The Economist

It is a sprawling, Kiplingesque empire of ledgers and barefoot clerks, surrounded by a glinting sea of cars and containers.

The Economist

The placid waters of the Dal Lake, the city's glory, are plied by lonely tourist-hunting boatmen under a winter sun glinting off snow-streaked mountain peaks.

The Economist

With grim precision, 50 French soldiers advanced down Bunia's main street on June 7th, tropical sunlight glinting on their chic matching shades and first-world weaponry.

The Economist

In a report published in July it concluded there was no scientific evidence to suggest that noise, flickering shadows or glinting blades made people sick.

The Economist

IT IS one of those January days when Washington looks its best: the sun pours out of a pure blue sky, glinting off the white dome of Congress; unspoiled snow carpets the lawns of Capitol Hill; an occasional burst of bird-song trills through the clean air.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "glinting" to vividly describe brief, bright reflections of light off a surface, especially when emphasizing a momentary or intermittent sparkle. For example, "The sun was glinting off the ocean waves."

Common error

Avoid using "glinting" to describe abstract qualities or emotions, as it is best suited for physical descriptions of light reflection. Instead of saying "His eyes were glinting with anger", consider "His eyes flashed with anger" or "His eyes narrowed with anger".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "glinting" is a present participle, often used as part of a continuous verb tense or as an adjective describing something that reflects light brightly. This is supported by Ludwig, as it confirms its use as the present participle of "glint."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "glinting" is a versatile term used to describe the sparkling reflection of light. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions primarily as a present participle. It is commonly used in descriptive writing to create vivid imagery, particularly in news, media, and encyclopedic contexts. The term conveys a sense of brightness and can be used in a neutral register. While there are other ways to express similar ideas—such as "shimmering" or "sparkling"—"glinting" emphasizes a momentary and bright reflection. When writing, remember to use "glinting" to describe physical reflections of light, rather than abstract concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shimmering

Implies a softer, wavering reflection of light compared to the sharp, bright reflection suggested by "glinting".

sparkling

Suggests numerous small points of light, whereas "glinting" can refer to a single, larger reflection.

glittering

Similar to sparkling, but can also imply artificial or showy brilliance, which "glinting" does not necessarily convey.

gleaming

Indicates a steady and radiant light, which is less transient than the fleeting reflection implied by "glinting".

glistening

Often used when referring to wet surfaces, implying a more liquid reflection than the general shine of "glinting".

shining

A more general term for emitting light, while "glinting" specifically refers to reflected light.

reflecting

Focuses on the action of bouncing light off a surface, while "glinting" emphasizes the resulting visual effect.

coruscating

Describes a brilliant and rapidly changing display of light, more intense and dynamic than "glinting".

twinkling

Suggests a flickering or intermittent light, unlike the steadier, sharper reflection of "glinting".

glowing

Indicates light emitted from within, rather than reflected from a surface, as with "glinting".

FAQs

How can I use "glinting" in a sentence?

"Glinting" is used to describe something that reflects light in a bright, sparkling way. For example, "The sun was glinting off the snow-covered mountains."

What are some synonyms for "glinting"?

Alternatives to "glinting" include "shimmering", "sparkling", or "gleaming", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "glinting eyes"?

Yes, "glinting eyes" is a common expression used to describe eyes that have a bright or excited expression, or that seem to sparkle with an emotion.

What's the difference between "glinting" and "glittering"?

"Glinting" refers to a brief flash or sparkle of light, while "glittering" describes something covered in many small, sparkling objects or lights. Therefore, "glinting" suggests a more subtle and momentary reflection.