patina

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "patina" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a surface appearance that has developed over time, often indicating age or character. An example is: "The old table had a beautiful patina that spoke of its history." Alternative expressions include "aged surface" and "weathered finish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It will feel new, but the patina will come with use," insists Page.

The Guardian - Arts

The result is a building of haunting beauty, where the patina of age and destruction resonates evocatively with the objects displayed, many of them ancient and incomplete themselves.Mr Chipperfield has designed other admired museums, including the Museo Jumex in Mexico City.

The Economist

Yet lately Italian politics had acquired a patina of stability.

The Economist

The textile's striking hue is achieved by dipping it into indigo, a plant extract, and a stabilising mix of egg white, pig or ox's blood and fermented fruit juices; it is then beaten to achieve a sheen or patina.

The Economist

That is not because of collectors' mania: drainspotters, as they are known, prefer to admire the objects of their affection in situ: off the street, the lovely greasy patina turns to rust.

The Economist

The urge to maintain a Eurosceptic patina at home would trump diplomatic concerns.

The Economist

It also left the marbles, which had been coated with a honey-brown patina tending even to black, a raw white colour.In this section Go, France Oh, what a lovely wall Scraping the marbles Angry old man Best may not be enough ReprintsThis, of course, had been the intent behind the cleaning.

The Economist

I worry that I've been mesmerised, staring too deeply into the museum's shiny patina and imagining hopeful attitude in all of North Adams around it.

The Economist

Frances Kissling, head of Catholics for a Free Choice, also points out that the Europeans have been careful to preserve a patina of disapproval.

The Economist

His death by suicide in 2008, aged 46, has lent him the grim patina of a martyr, preserving the vitality of his voice from the erosion of time.In this section The significations of his words World without end Looking ahead Infinite struggle Same as it ever was ReprintsAll of which makes Wallace a seductive subject for a biography, but also a tricky one.

The Economist

Memories of the invasion of Iraq, which has taken on the patina of a ghastly episode from a former marriage, explain that.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the "patina" of an object, be specific about its color, texture, and the qualities it imparts. For instance, instead of simply stating that a bronze statue has a "patina", describe it as having a deep green "patina" that speaks to its age and exposure to the elements.

Common error

Avoid using "patina" to describe any general discoloration or wear. "Patina" specifically refers to a surface change that enhances the object's beauty or historical value, not simply damage or neglect.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "patina" is as a noun, referring to a surface layer acquired through age and use. As Ludwig AI explains, this term is used to describe changes in the appearance of materials over time, particularly metals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "patina" functions primarily as a noun, describing a surface layer or change resulting from age and use, often implying aesthetic or historical value. Ludwig AI data suggests the term is grammatically sound and frequently used, especially in news, encyclopedias, and science contexts. While it's important to use "patina" accurately to denote a positive surface development, it adds depth and richness to descriptions of aged objects and even abstract concepts. The related phrases offer alternative ways to describe the surface qualities, and being mindful of the common errors ensures precise and effective use of the term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

antique surface

Directly indicates the surface is from an antique item.

aged appearance

Emphasizes the look of something that has aged over time.

time-worn quality

Highlights the impact of time on an object's condition and appearance.

surface finish

Focuses on the external appearance of a material.

weathered texture

Highlights the effect of environmental exposure on the material's appearance.

layer of oxidation

Specifically refers to the chemical process that causes patina.

venerable quality

Implies the object has gained respect or admiration through age.

film of tarnish

Suggests a discoloration or dulling of a surface.

distinctive character

Shifts focus to the unique quality conferred by aging.

developed sheen

Describes a soft luster or glow acquired over time.

FAQs

How to use "patina" in a sentence?

You can use "patina" to describe the surface appearance of aged objects, such as "The antique furniture had a rich "patina" that added to its charm" or "The bronze statue displayed a green "patina" from years of exposure to the elements".

What is the definition of "patina"?

A "patina" is a surface layer on metal or wood produced by age, oxidation, or weathering, often valued for its aesthetic quality.

What can I say instead of "patina"?

You can use alternatives like "surface finish", "aged appearance", or "weathered texture" depending on the context.

What materials typically develop a "patina"?

Metals like bronze, copper, and silver are well known for developing a "patina" over time. Wood and leather can also develop a surface appearance, although it is sometimes referred to by other names.