like a stamp

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like a stamp" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is applied or affixed in a manner similar to how a stamp is used, often implying permanence or a definitive mark. Example: "She pressed the seal onto the wax, leaving an impression like a stamp."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

The dirt wasn't unpleasant — it marked my travels like a stamp in a passport.

The New Yorker

It was called Seal Cay, because it was small and round like a stamp or seal.

The New York Times - Sports

Laurent Koscielny had earlier escaped censure for what looked like a stamp on the Bournemouth midfielder.

The Guardian - Sport

"If you are successful there and get good write-ups, it's like a stamp of approval".

The New York Times - Arts

"I buy the smallest thing, like a stamp, and I'm thinking, This person would be good for the shop".

The New Yorker

On her right index-finger knuckle is a perfect red dot, like a stamp of quality from the manufacturer.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Each medium-large painting has a copy of a Tiffany jewelry ad from The New York Times silk-screened in the upper right corner like a postage stamp.

The New York Times - Arts

The biggest potential reductions in spam may come from some more radical ideas, like imposing a small fee, like a postage stamp, for sending e-mail.

The New York Times

Priced at $829,000, it was a dollhouse with neither an eat-in kitchen nor a master bathroom, Mr. Silverman said, and the backyard was like a postage stamp.

The New York Times

He said later: "If the Queen can reject the advice of a minister on a little thing like a postage stamp, what would happen if she rejected the advice of the prime minister on a major matter?

Independent

He was fond of quoting Benjamin Franklin, Isaac Newton and George Washington from memory and was meticulous about accounting for even the smallest use of company resources, like a postage stamp, for his personal business.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like a stamp" when comparing something's impact or permanence to the act of stamping, ensuring the context clearly establishes the comparison.

Common error

Avoid using "like a stamp" in situations where a direct comparison isn't intended; the phrase's strength lies in its ability to draw parallels.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like a stamp" primarily functions as a simile, comparing something to a stamp to highlight a quality such as permanence, certification, or resemblance. As Ludwig AI suggests, it draws a parallel between the compared subject and the act or appearance of a stamp.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Arts

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like a stamp" is a simile used to draw comparisons of permanence, resemblance, or validation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English. Primarily found in news and media, it effectively illustrates a lasting impact or a recognizable characteristic. When using this phrase, ensure the comparative context is clear and intentional. Common alternatives include "resembling a stamp" or "akin to a stamp". Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similar to a stamp

This alternative is a more general way to express resemblance.

resembling a stamp

This alternative emphasizes the visual similarity to a stamp.

akin to a stamp

This alternative implies a similarity in function or impact.

analogous to a stamp

This alternative suggests a parallel or comparable relationship to a stamp.

reminiscent of a stamp

This alternative suggests a memory or association linked to the qualities of a stamp.

in the manner of a stamp

This alternative emphasizes the action or process of stamping.

characteristic of a stamp

This variation emphasizes inherent qualities that resemble a stamp.

bearing a stamp-like quality

This alternative focuses on a specific characteristic reminiscent of a stamp.

evocative of a stamp

This choice highlights how something recalls the image or impression of a stamp.

with the semblance of a stamp

This option highlights the outward appearance being similar to a stamp.

FAQs

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

You can use "like a stamp" to compare something's impact or appearance to that of a stamp. For instance, "The experience left a mark on him "like a stamp", forever changing his perspective."

What are some alternatives to saying "like a stamp"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "resembling a stamp", "akin to a stamp", or "similar to a stamp".

Is it correct to say something is 'just like a stamp'?

Yes, saying something is "just like a stamp" is grammatically correct, particularly if you're emphasizing the similarity or likeness. However, consider if a more precise comparison would be more effective.

In what contexts is "like a stamp" most appropriately used?

The phrase "like a stamp" is most appropriately used when describing something that leaves a lasting impression, signifies approval, or resembles a stamp in appearance or function. This usage is common in "news and media", arts and "wiki" contexts.