have a nibble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have a nibble" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is suggesting to take a small bite of food or to sample something lightly. Example: "If you're feeling hungry, why not have a nibble of the cheese platter before dinner?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Huffington Post

BBC

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Stupidly, I have a nibble.

The Guardian - Travel

I wanted to get that but I might have a nibble of yours.

The Guardian

Without enthusiasm, I stir in some honey, smear on toast and have a nibble... it's delicious.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Philippe Noiret, the doleful-faced French star of many Tavernier movies, was always happy to have a nibble.

The Guardian - Film

The rules are straightforward: every time one of the named films wins, you must take a drink, as specified below (pray Frost/Nixon doesn't sweep the board); and every time a particular event happens, have a nibble.

The Guardian - Film

"They sniff around, they might sit down, have a look about, and then they'll eventually climb up the tree and have a nibble.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

he has a nibble at the next, too.

The Guardian - Sport

He is asking $25,000 but hasn't had a nibble so far.

The New Yorker

Leone has a nibble on her fishing line but she doesn't pull it up.

The New Yorker

He immediately caught three fish, including a fighting tiger fish the area is famous for; no one else had a nibble.

The New York Times - Travel

"Just as dumb creatures are snared by food, human beings would not be caught unless they had a nibble of hope," Petronius remarked.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have a nibble" when suggesting a small, often exploratory, bite of food, especially in informal settings. It implies a casual and non-committal approach to eating.

Common error

Avoid using "have a nibble" in formal or professional settings where more precise language like "sample" or "taste" might be more appropriate. The phrase is generally informal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have a nibble" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating the act of taking a small bite or sample of something. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it's used to suggest trying a small amount of food, aligning with the formal usage of the expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

16%

Huffington Post

8%

Less common in

The New York Times - Food

8%

The Guardian - Sport

8%

Science

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "have a nibble" is an informal expression suggesting a small bite or sample of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, primarily in news and media, with a focus on casual, friendly interactions. While grammatically correct and easy to understand, it's best reserved for informal settings, as it may not be suitable for formal or professional communication. For more formal contexts, synonyms like "sample" or "taste" may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take a small bite

Focuses on the action of biting, emphasizing the small size of the portion.

sample a taste

Emphasizes the act of trying something to assess its flavor.

try a morsel

Highlights the small and often delightful nature of the portion.

have a taste

A more general way to suggest trying something, without specifying size.

snack lightly

Indicates a light and casual consumption of food.

partake slightly

A more formal way to say "have a nibble", emphasizing a minimal involvement.

graze gently

Suggests a slow and delicate approach to eating small amounts.

sip slowly

Implies consuming a liquid in small quantities over time.

touch lightly

Indicates a very minimal and delicate consumption.

peck at food

Evokes an image of eating small bits of food, similar to a bird.

FAQs

What does "have a nibble" mean?

The phrase "have a nibble" means to take a small bite or sample a small amount of food.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "have a nibble"?

It's appropriate in informal settings when suggesting someone tries a small portion of food. It's often used casually, such as offering a taste of something you're eating. Using a more formal phrase, like "sample a taste", may be better suited for formal occassions.

What are some alternative ways to say "have a nibble"?

Alternatives include "take a small bite", "try a morsel", or simply "have a taste", depending on the context.

Is "have a nibble" formal or informal?

The phrase "have a nibble" is generally considered informal. For formal settings, consider using alternatives like "sample a portion" or "taste the dish".