on the cob

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the cob" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe food, particularly corn, that is served still attached to the cob. Example: "We enjoyed a delicious summer barbecue with grilled corn on the cob as a side dish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

I Spent Thanksgiving at a Native American Casinordered

Vice

Corn on the cob?

The New York Times - Food

Corn on the cob? "No, cream corn.

The New York Times - Sports

It's eaten on the cob.

The Washington Post

And corn on the cob!

The New York Times

Corn on the cob is simple food.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

If varmint cannot be restrained with tongs and corn-on-the-cob holders, stand on it.

The New Yorker

(The latter is worth ordering for the side of on-the-cob "street corn" alone).

The New Yorker

You do not do this with corn-on-the-cob.

Huffington Post

We shared combines, callouses, conversation and corn-on-the-cob at the harvest supper.

Huffington Post

The grilled corn-on-the-cob ($1) is simple but good.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "on the cob" with adjectives like 'grilled', 'steamed', or 'fresh' to provide a more vivid sensory experience for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "on the cob" to describe a cooking process. It describes the presentation of the corn, not how it's cooked. Instead, specify the cooking method (e.g., 'grilled corn') and then add 'on the cob' if relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the cob" primarily functions as a post-modifier, specifically a prepositional phrase, describing the state or presentation of corn. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the cob" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to describe corn served with its kernels attached to the cob. Ludwig AI validates its usage across diverse contexts. While the phrase is neutral in register, it is most frequently found in news and media. It is important to use it to accurately describe the presentation of corn, rather than as a cooking method. Alternatives include ""served on the ear"". Common related searches include cooking methods and alternatives to the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Served on the ear

Refers specifically to corn, emphasizing that it's served with the kernels still attached to the cob.

Attached to the husk

Describes produce with its outermost layer still intact, often used for corn or other vegetables.

Unshucked

Similar to 'attached to the husk' but more specifically about corn and the process of removing the outer layers.

In the husk

Specifically refers to food, like corn, presented within its outer protective layers.

In its natural form

Emphasizes the item is unaltered from its original state, without specifying attachment to a cob.

As a whole piece

Indicates that the food item is presented complete and uncut, without referring to a cob.

Served whole

Emphasizes that the item is not cut or processed, but doesn't specify attachment to any part.

Freshly picked

Implies recent harvesting and natural state, but not necessarily implying it's still on the cob.

Straight from the field

Similar to 'freshly picked,' emphasizing minimal processing or alteration.

Directly from the stalk

Emphasizes the directness of the food source, implying minimal processing, but not necessarily the presence of a cob.

FAQs

What does it mean when corn is described as "on the cob"?

When corn is described as "on the cob", it means the kernels are still attached to the central core of the corn, which is called the cob. It typically refers to how the corn is served or eaten.

What can I say instead of "corn on the cob"?

You can use alternatives like "corn "served on the ear"" or simply specify the corn is "whole" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "corn on the cobs" when referring to multiple ears of corn?

While "corn on the cob" is the standard phrase, it's more common to say "ears of corn" when referring to multiple units. "Corn on the cobs" is less frequently used.

What's the best way to cook "corn on the cob"?

There are various methods, including boiling, grilling, steaming, and microwaving. The best method depends on your preference for texture and flavor.