like a feather

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like a feather" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is very light or delicate, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "She danced across the stage like a feather, effortlessly gliding through the air."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"You're like a feather, child.

The New Yorker

This can be done by attaching store-bought feathers to the wings with a strong glue; simply place a dab of glue where you'd like a feather, then stick the tip of the feather through the glue and into the stocking for a tight hold.

WikiHow

I was like a feather.

Independent

"Now I feel lighter, like a feather".

The New York Times

Smith tossed Faulk like a feather.

The New York Times - Sports

On Thursday, Kim whisked like a feather across the ice.

The New York Times - Sports

His infant sister's forehead had felt like a feather.

The New Yorker

She floats to the ground like a feather, landing on her back.

The New Yorker

The guy's sleeping on that goddam steel like a feather bed.

The New Yorker

It was perfectly judged, and dropped into the cup like a feather.

The Guardian - Sport

When Munis jumps off the roof — Neshat shows her floating, like a feather — the film breaks into surrealism.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like a feather" to vividly describe the lightness or ease of movement of an object or person. This simile is particularly effective when you want to create a sense of gentleness or grace.

Common error

Avoid using "like a feather" to describe things that are heavy or forceful. This creates a contradictory image and weakens your writing. Instead, consider using a more appropriate comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like a feather" functions primarily as a simile, comparing something to the lightness and gentle movement of a feather. Ludwig confirms this is a correct and usable expression. It enhances descriptions by creating a vivid image of delicacy and ease.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The simile "like a feather" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression, as affirmed by Ludwig. It vividly conveys lightness, ease, and gentleness. This phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources, showcasing its broad applicability in describing various subjects. While alternatives like "as light as a feather" or "light as air" exist, "like a feather" offers a distinct and recognizable image. Remember to use it to describe things that are actually light and gentle to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as light as a feather

Direct comparison emphasizing the extreme lightness.

light as air

Emphasizes weightlessness and ease of movement.

floating gently

Focuses on the slow and delicate descent.

weightless

Highlights the absence of weight.

ethereal

Suggests a delicate and otherworldly quality.

graceful

Focuses on the elegance and fluidity of movement.

delicate

Emphasizes fragility and lightness in handling.

effortless

Highlights the ease with which something is done.

buoyant

Describes the ability to float easily.

airborne

Focuses on being suspended in the air.

FAQs

How can I use "like a feather" in a sentence?

You can use "like a feather" to describe something that is very light or moves with ease. For example, "She danced across the stage "like a feather", effortlessly gliding through the air".

What can I say instead of "like a feather"?

You can use alternatives such as "as light as a feather", "light as air", or "floating gently" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "like a feather" or "as a feather"?

"Like a feather" is the more common and idiomatic expression. "As a feather" is grammatically correct but less frequently used in this context.

What does it mean to say something moves "like a feather"?

It means the object or person moves very lightly, gently, and gracefully, often floating or drifting in the air.