precious phrase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "precious phrase" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a phrase that holds significant value or meaning to someone, often in a sentimental context. Example: "She repeated the precious phrase her grandmother used to say, feeling a deep connection to her family history."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Iagnemma's prose is agreeable to the ear, even if, in the occasional precious phrase like "fronds of frost" or "wind sluices through chinks in the rough-hewn planks," you catch him saying I'm a writer -- got that?

The New York Times - Books

On "Labyrinth," you can hear Sting straining to be proper, thinking his way through every precious phrase, when those melancholy Dowland love songs with their great tunes would benefit hugely from Sting's being the same self-confident (yet still morose) guy who sang "King of Pain".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

I'd fight for precious phrases: "A teenage reader can understand 'the curious uplift of dashed hopes,'" I'd sputter.

The New York Times

Most readers won't mind the occasional phrase gone precious — such indulgences only set the spare, move-me-to-tears passages into higher relief.

The New York Times - Books

(He is also worryingly fond of quoting Churchill's famous phrase about truth being so precious in wartime that "it must be accompanied by a bodyguard of lies").

The Economist

Ticket-punching lifers, we called them with all the derision that the phrase implies; they seemed more interested in tending their precious careers than anything else.

The New York Times

Members of Congress (who seem to be in a position to know) expose the petitioners' hypothesis as specious, but the government's contention that the phrase was selected as a "term of art" is rather precious.

The Economist

For example, since many screens can show only two words across, Yahoo's cell site formats its news headlines as individual lines that blink successive phrases when you select them; CNN keeps headlines shorter but eats precious screen space.

Forbes

Their supposedly precious time is wasted as they struggle to figure out, through jargon-filled phrases and long, bulleted lists, what on earth the person speaking is trying to say.

Forbes

His polished, if self-consciously literary, lines delineate an emotional terrain best summed up in a phrase borrowed from Mr. Sondheim: "sorry-grateful," wistful reflections on what is most precious in life.

The New York Times - Arts

Once the fridge recognizes that signature phrase in six different languages, the door unlocks and it gives up its precious cargo of Molson Canadian cans.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "precious phrase" when you want to emphasize the value or importance of a particular combination of words, especially in a context where that phrase is rare or meaningful to someone.

Common error

Avoid using "precious phrase" too frequently, as it can lose its impact and sound affected. Reserve it for situations where the phrase truly warrants special attention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precious phrase" functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. It identifies a particular phrase that is considered valuable or meaningful. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "precious phrase" is a valid expression used to describe a phrase that holds significant value, often sentimental. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not frequently encountered, it serves to emphasize the importance or cherished nature of a specific wording. Alternatives such as "cherished expression" or "treasured idiom" may be considered depending on the context. Its usage spans news and media, lending a reflective tone to the narrative. When using "precious phrase", remember to reserve it for instances where the emotional weight or unique value of the phrase truly merits emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

favorite expression

Highlights the personal preference and enjoyment of the phrase.

cherished expression

Emphasizes the emotional value and personal connection associated with the phrase.

meaningful turn of phrase

Emphasizes the depth and impact behind the choice of words.

treasured idiom

Highlights the traditional and cultural significance of the phrase.

significant expression

Highlights the importance of the message of the phrase.

valued saying

Focuses on the practical wisdom or insight conveyed by the phrase.

important wording

Focuses on the significance and impact of the specific words used.

memorable saying

Stresses how the phrase can be easily remembered.

esteemed locution

Implies a formal and sophisticated appreciation for the phrase.

prized term

Suggests the phrase is highly sought after or regarded as exceptional.

FAQs

How can I use "precious phrase" in a sentence?

You can use "precious phrase" to describe a particular expression that holds significant meaning or sentimental value. For instance, "She often repeated that "cherished saying", her grandmother's "precious phrase" that always brought comfort".

What are some alternatives to "precious phrase"?

Consider using alternatives like "cherished expression", "treasured idiom", or "valued saying" depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

What makes a phrase "precious"?

A phrase becomes "precious" when it carries deep personal, cultural, or historical significance. It may be a phrase that evokes strong emotions, represents a core belief, or has been passed down through generations.

Is it appropriate to use "precious phrase" in formal writing?

While not inherently inappropriate, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing. In some formal contexts, a more neutral term like "significant expression" or "important wording" may be preferable.