lozenge

USAGE SUMMARY

'lozenge' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun that refers to a diamond-shaped candy. For example, "The lozenge was so sweet that it made my teeth hurt!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

In theory, then, one tiny lozenge of filo and ground nuts, dripping with tangy syrup, should be quite enough for anyone, perhaps two if they're particularly greedy – yet this week I discovered I'm quite able to put away half a tin of the stuff without coming up for air.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The largest swathe can be found across Old Oak Common and Park Royal: a 950-hectare lozenge to the north-west of the city encompassing several waste plants, some post-war warehouses and a clutch of crumbling railway cottages.

The Economist

Although the lozenge has wealthy neighbours, it has rotted for decades.

The Economist

The fantastic flowers are placed along the vines in such a way that one is centred in each lozenge.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In other examples there is a single lozenge system, each lozenge sometimes having a different ground colour.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A number of stones in the walls of the huts and alleys bear roughly scratched lozenge and similar rectilinear patterns.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

It's a creamy satin sheath, embroidered with star-like flowers, with romantic deep bell sleeves and a huge, lozenge-shaped, 3.6-metre train.

The Economist

Riverlight, a series of lozenge-shaped blocks by Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners, has much in common with their architects' monumentally expensive but otherwise unremarkable One Hyde Park in Mayfair, but not with its neighbours in Embassy Gardens (top-heavy rectangular buildings) or Battersea Power Station (curved blocks with irregular layers).

The Economist

Work has also begun on a space-age lozenge-shaped media centre which will loom over the ground's "Nursery End".

The Economist

Projectile points appear to have been mostly leaf- or lozenge-shaped or lanceolate in earlier phases, with a greater use of notching for hafting in later phases.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mbala figures have three different types of faces: elongated, wide, and lozenge-shaped.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing architectural elements or patterns, use "lozenge" to specify a diamond shape, differentiating it from other quadrilaterals. This provides a more precise visual description.

Common error

Avoid using "lozenge" interchangeably with general terms like "candy" or "sweet". "Lozenge" specifies a particular shape or medicinal use, so ensure the context aligns with these characteristics. Not all candies are lozenges.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "lozenge" is as a noun. It can refer either to a diamond-shaped figure or a medicated tablet. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing shapes, objects, and medicinal products, consistent with Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "lozenge" functions primarily as a noun, denoting either a diamond-shaped geometric figure or a small, often medicated tablet. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage across diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific literature. It can accurately describe shapes, architectural elements, or medicinal products. While the term is versatile, writers should ensure its use aligns with its specific meanings to avoid ambiguity. When referring to tablets to soothe a cough or sore throat, consider the term "cough drop" instead. "Lozenge" maintains a neutral to formal register, particularly in scientific or historical discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pastille

A smaller, often medicated candy, similar in function but differing in shape and specific ingredients.

medicated candy

Focuses on the medicinal aspect, relevant when a lozenge is used for health purposes.

throat drop

Specifically refers to a medicated candy used to soothe a sore throat, highlighting a particular use of a lozenge.

cough drop

Similar to a throat drop, but emphasizes its role in suppressing coughs.

tablet

A broader term for a small, solid dose of medicine, which can include lozenges but isn't specific to that form.

diamond shape

Refers to the geometric shape, a key characteristic of some lozenges, particularly in design or architecture.

rhombus

A precise geometric term for a diamond shape, relevant when discussing the shape of an object described as a lozenge.

sweet

A general term for a sugary confection, of which lozenges can be a type.

quadrilateral

A broader geometric term, referring to any four-sided shape, but applicable when describing a lozenge's form.

geometric figure

A general term for geometric shapes, used when referring to a decorative lozenge.

FAQs

How is "lozenge" used in geometry?

In geometry, a "lozenge" refers to a quadrilateral with four equal sides and oblique angles, also known as a rhombus. It's used to describe shapes in patterns or architectural designs.

What's the difference between a "lozenge" and a pastille?

While both a "lozenge" and a "pastille" are small, solid candies, a "lozenge" often implies a diamond shape or medicinal purpose, whereas "pastille" is a more general term for a flavored or medicated tablet.

When should I use "cough drop" instead of "lozenge"?

Use "cough drop" when specifically referring to a medicated tablet intended to soothe a cough or sore throat. "Lozenge" is a broader term that can also refer to a geometric shape or non-medicated candy.

Can "lozenge" refer to something other than candy or shape?

Yes, "lozenge" can also describe a small tablet containing medication, often used to relieve a sore throat or cough. This usage emphasizes its function as a medicated delivery system.