is rather precious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is rather precious" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is considered valuable, endearing, or cherished, often in a sentimental context. Example: "The old photograph of my grandparents is rather precious to me, as it holds many memories of our family history."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Members of Congress (who seem to be in a position to know) expose the petitioners' hypothesis as specious, but the government's contention that the phrase was selected as a "term of art" is rather precious.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

They want to take Camille with them, though that's likely to be difficult given that a) the dead are rather precious about losing any of their number and b) Camille is becoming increasingly attached to Virgil, with Lena catching the pair together this week.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

As a result, those toys and dolls and games were rather precious to us.

Huffington Post

Hayes himself is an intelligent man and while he resents his tenant's rather precious politics he knows unavoidable changes are coming.

Huffington Post

But Ruefle's mission is not to — yawn — remind everybody how precious poetry is; rather, it's to give pleasure by showing how the mind works when it's working most pleasurably.

The New York Times - Books

The race to populate space has been staggeringly slow, and the idea that someone would finally think to scan below the moon's surface for precious minerals is rather moving.

The Guardian - Opinion

So his time in Ireland today, three weeks out from the elections, was presumably rather precious.

The Economist

That's not completely a bad thing — the stainless chassis and the soft-touch plastic that the Slate's rear is swathed in are rather nice — but there are precious few other design niceties to be found here.

TechCrunch

Mining stocks have, as is well known, been rather volatile in recent weeks and precious metal miners are no exception.

The Guardian - Business

"Still Lives," whose cast is completed by Meg Wolfe, is set to rather precious occasional bursts of music and sound by Kostas Kouris.

The New York Times - Arts

He was the only boy and there were four girls, so he was seen as rather precious.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is rather precious" when you want to convey that something is not only valuable but also has a sentimental or personal significance. Avoid overuse to maintain its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "is rather precious" too frequently in your writing, as it can come across as overly sentimental or cliché. Vary your vocabulary to maintain a fresh and engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is rather precious" functions as a subject complement, attributing a quality of value and endearment to the subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is rather precious" is a versatile expression used to convey that something is considered valuable and endearing. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, as well as scientific and wiki platforms, it effectively expresses sentimental value or personal significance. While acceptable in most writing contexts, varying vocabulary can enhance the tone of your content. Alternative expressions include "is quite valuable", "is very dear", and "is highly cherished".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is quite valuable

Substitutes "rather precious" with a more direct adjective emphasizing worth.

is very dear

Replaces "rather precious" with an expression of affection and importance.

holds great value

Shifts the focus to the inherent value possessed by something.

is highly cherished

Emphasizes the act of cherishing something that is considered precious.

is deeply treasured

Similar to 'highly cherished', but with a stronger emotional connection.

is exceptionally prized

Highlights the rarity and desirability of something precious.

is something to be valued

Presents the phrase as an idea rather than an absolute statement.

is a treasured possession

Specifically refers to something owned and greatly valued.

is of immense worth

Focuses on the significant value or importance of something.

is something truly special

Emphasizes the unique and exceptional nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "is rather precious" in a sentence?

You can use "is rather precious" to describe something that is valuable or meaningful to you. For example, "This family heirloom is rather precious to me because it represents my heritage."

What can I say instead of "is rather precious"?

You can use alternatives like "is quite valuable", "is very dear", or "is highly cherished" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "is rather precious"?

It's appropriate to use "is rather precious" when you want to express a sense of sentimental value or endearment towards something. It's often used in personal or reflective writing.

Is "is rather precious" formal or informal?

"Is rather precious" leans towards a neutral to slightly formal tone. It's generally acceptable in most writing contexts, but consider your audience and purpose when choosing your words.