put a twist on

USAGE SUMMARY

"put a twist on" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to mean to change something in a creative or unexpected way. For example, you could say "I wanted to put a twist on my wardrobe this season and try some new colors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Now, one Internet start-up has put a twist on that question: Will readers pay for a journalist?

The New York Times

But one general counsel we spoke with put a twist on the old saying, in a way that reflects the turmoil and change that the legal industry is undergoing.

Harvard Business Review

City Room put a twist on a New Year's tradition, asking readers to propose resolutions for their loved ones to make.

The New York Times

Not gratuitously, but I put a twist on it".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mussina put a twist on that theory Monday.

The New York Times

For better or worse, he helped put a twist on how records were sold.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

"Putting a twist on George Orwell's famous dictum: All Centurions are equal.

The New York Times

But the new study puts a twist on this notion, Mr. Astley said.

The New York Times - Science

Article: Marc Jacobs Puts a Twist on Fall Article: Marc Jacobs Thinks (Very) Young.

The New York Times

But it's striking the number of specialist shows putting a twist on this format.

The Guardian

Both are nuevo-jazz repertory bands, putting a twist on old music.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "put a twist on" when you want to convey that something is being modified or presented in a novel or unexpected manner. It's suitable for describing creative adaptations or reinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "put a twist on" in contexts where a literal twisting action is meant. The phrase is idiomatic and refers to a figurative change or modification, not a physical one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put a twist on" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of modifying something in a creative or unexpected way. This is supported by Ludwig and the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "put a twist on" is a very common idiomatic phrase that means to modify something in a creative or unexpected way. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in News & Media. When writing, use it to indicate a novel adaptation or reinterpretation. Alternative phrases include "add a spin to" or "offer a variation on", but be mindful of avoiding literal interpretations. The phrase carries a neutral register, making it suitable for diverse contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

add a spin to

Focuses on adding a particular angle or perspective.

give a new angle to

Emphasizes introducing a fresh viewpoint.

offer a variation on

Highlights providing a modified version of something.

present an alternative take on

Stresses presenting a differing viewpoint.

modify in a creative way

Focuses on the innovative aspect of changing something.

adapt with originality

Highlights both adaptation and unique creativity.

reimagine innovatively

Emphasizes a fresh and inventive conceptualization.

transform uniquely

Focuses on a distinctive transformation process.

innovate upon

Stresses building on an existing idea with innovation.

change in an interesting way

Highlights the intriguing nature of the alteration.

FAQs

How can I use "put a twist on" in a sentence?

You can use "put a twist on" to describe modifying something in a creative or unexpected way. For instance, "The chef decided to put a twist on the traditional recipe by adding exotic spices".

What are some alternatives to "put a twist on"?

Some alternatives include "add a spin to", "offer a variation on", or "give a new angle to", each subtly changing the emphasis.

Is it correct to say "putting a twist on" instead of "put a twist on"?

Yes, "putting a twist on" can be used in progressive tenses or when a gerund is required, such as "She is putting a twist on the project by using unconventional materials".

What's the difference between "put a twist on" and simply "change"?

"Put a twist on" implies a more creative and inventive modification, whereas "change" is a general term for making something different. The former suggests adding something unique or unexpected.