like a digital watch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like a digital watch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to draw a comparison to something that is precise, clear, or has a modern, technological quality. Example: "Her explanation was as straightforward as a digital watch, leaving no room for confusion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In April, Barnes & Noble changed the game: it offered an E Ink e-reader whose background lights up with a soft glow, like a digital watch.

The New York Times - Tech

In its center, resting against the skin of your forehead, there's a little transmitter pod, something like a digital watch without the band.

The New York Times - Tech

Like a digital watch, it did not have constant backlighting but relied on ambient light reflecting off the screen's silvery base to illuminate the display.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Like sports utility vehicles, a digital watch is a symbol of the times.

Forbes

It was a digital watch, like one I had long coveted.

The New York Times

You could get a wristband with your favorite singer's or band's name on it or you could go for a normal or a digital watch with medium sized straps in colors like blue, red and black.

WikiHow

It's not a digital watch.

The New Yorker

It has a digital watch, a long life battery and a strap.

Independent

After buying it, you still get your choice of a digital watch or a transistor radio.

The New Yorker

Why wouldn't it be equally useful on a digital watch?

The New York Times

Again I'll say it — I don't have a digital watch.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like a digital watch" to describe something that is straightforward, clear, and precise in its operation or appearance.

Common error

Avoid using "like a digital watch" to describe something that should be elegant or timeless, as it implies a sense of modernity and functionality rather than classic appeal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like a digital watch" primarily functions as a simile, used to draw a comparison between something and the characteristics associated with a digital watch, such as precision, clarity, or modernity. As Ludwig AI pointed out, this comparison helps to illustrate a specific quality or feature.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "like a digital watch" is a simile used to convey qualities such as precision, clarity, or modernity. As Ludwig AI explains, it is grammatically correct and primarily appears in news and media, with occasional use in wiki and scientific contexts. While not extremely common, it effectively draws a comparison to the perceived characteristics of a digital watch. Consider context when using this phrase, as it is more appropriate for describing functional or technological attributes rather than timeless elegance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precise as clockwork

Emphasizes the accuracy and precision of clockwork mechanisms.

as modern as a smartwatch

Highlights the contemporary and technologically advanced nature of smartwatches.

accurate as an atomic clock

Stresses the extreme accuracy associated with atomic clocks.

with digital precision

Focuses on the numerical exactness implied by digital technology.

as predictable as a timer

Emphasizes the reliability and expected behavior of a timer.

like a well-oiled machine

Highlights smooth and efficient operation.

as clear as an LCD display

Emphasizes the clarity and ease of reading associated with LCD screens.

resembling a calculator

Focuses on the calculating capabilities associated with old digital watches.

structured as computer code

Emphasizes the logical construction and order of computer programming.

synchronized as a network

Highlights the harmony and coordinated operation of networked devices.

FAQs

How can I use "like a digital watch" in a sentence?

You can use "like a digital watch" to describe something precise, clear, or technologically advanced, for example: "Her explanation was as straightforward as "like a digital watch", leaving no room for confusion."

What can I say instead of "like a digital watch"?

You can use alternatives like "precise as clockwork", "as modern as a smartwatch", or "accurate as an atomic clock" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "like a digital watch" or "like an analog watch"?

"Like a digital watch" and "like an analog watch" are both grammatically correct but have different meanings. "Like a digital watch" suggests precision and modernity, while "like an analog watch" might imply tradition or a continuous flow.

What's the difference between "like a digital watch" and "like a Swiss watch"?

"Like a digital watch" suggests clarity and modern technology, while "like a Swiss watch" implies precision, quality, and craftsmanship. The choice depends on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.