on a platter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a platter" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is presented or offered in an easy and convenient manner, often implying that it is done without effort or struggle. Example: "The promotion was handed to him on a platter after he completed the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Kiwis on a platter?" she offered.

The New York Times - Sports

"Baby, you're mine on a platter".

The New Yorker

They look beautiful on a platter.

The New York Times

"We are delivering democracy on a platter.

Independent

Place cheesecake on a platter.

The New York Times

Serve the cha gio on a platter.

The New York Times

Place the squab halves on a platter.

The New York Times - Magazine

Arrange the artichokes on a platter.

The New York Times - Magazine

2. Arrange greens on a platter.

The New York Times - Food

Arrange on a platter, and serve.

The New York Times

Place cheesecake on a platter, and serve.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the arrangement of food items, ensure your descriptions are vivid and appealing to enhance the reader's experience. "Arranging the colorful vegetables on a platter creates an inviting appetizer."

Common error

Avoid using "on a platter" in contexts where effort or hard work is involved. It can create a sense of entitlement or diminish the value of the achievement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a platter" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how something is presented or offered. As noted by Ludwig AI, it suggests ease and convenience in the manner of delivery, which often implies little to no effort was required by the recipient.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on a platter" is a versatile phrase used to describe something offered or presented with exceptional ease. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in contexts like news, media, and general writing. It suggests that the recipient obtains something without significant effort, sometimes implying a lack of deservingness. When writing, consider the implications of ease and entitlement when using this phrase, and remember that synonyms like "on a silver platter" can add emphasis or nuance. Its meaning ranges from the literal arrangement of food on a serving dish to more abstract concepts like democracy or inner peace being delivered without struggle.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a silver platter

Adds emphasis on the ease and luxury of the offering.

served on a dish

Focuses more on the presentation and service aspect.

presented effortlessly

Highlights the lack of effort involved in the delivery.

readily available

Emphasizes the accessibility and convenience of the item.

easily obtained

Focuses on the ease of acquiring something.

laid out attractively

Specifically refers to visual arrangement.

offered freely

Highlights the generosity or lack of cost associated.

handed over directly

Emphasizes the immediate and personal delivery.

delivered conveniently

Focuses on the convenience aspect of the delivery.

available without effort

Stresses the absence of work required to get it.

FAQs

How can I use "on a platter" in a sentence?

You can use "on a platter" to describe something that is presented or offered in an easy and convenient manner. For example, "He was given the promotion "on a platter"."

What is a similar expression to "on a platter"?

A similar expression is "on a silver platter", which adds emphasis to the ease and luxury of the offering.

What does it mean when something is handed to someone "on a platter"?

It means that the person received something easily, without having to work hard for it. This can sometimes imply that the recipient didn't deserve it, depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "on a platter" in formal writing?

Yes, it is acceptable but use it with caution in formal writing. It adds a layer of nuance to your sentences. Always ensure that the intended meaning of ease or convenience is clear in the context you're using it.