sample a bit of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sample a bit of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to trying or experiencing a small portion of something, such as food, music, or an idea. Example: "At the festival, attendees can sample a bit of various cuisines from around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Let's sample a bit of the Black Eyed Peas, once a bona fide hip-hop outfit.

The Guardian - Music

In addition to the sculptures, which are on view through Oct. 26, Met visitors can also sample a bit of Mr. Koons's taste in art.

The New York Times - Arts

This is perhaps a good time to open a nice St.-Joseph wine and sample a bit of cheese you bought from the nearby market and a fresh baguette?

Britannica

The collagen was discovered in another sample, a bit of rib from an undetermined dinosaur dating from around the same period of time.

Los Angeles Times

(To sample a bit of this performance, listen to the clip below of the Scherzo movement. If you like what you hear and want to listen to the whole symphony in audio form, go to NEC's InstantEncore page here).

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

We were having a good time, sampling a bit of culture, walking round the city and generally relaxing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They had lunch in the gourmet cafeteria, where Mr. Mello sampled a bit of everything, and visited the company store.

The New York Times - Tech

More classical music is being consumed on the Internet than anyone suspected: forty million Americans have apparently sampled a bit of Bach or Brahms online.

The New Yorker

But while performers are busy mixing James Brown into their music, Mr. Sharpton is sampling a bit of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a touch of the hip-hop impresario Sean Combs, who also goes by the name P. Diddy.

The New York Times

It pairs some musical experimentation — tape loops, samples, a bit of rapping (not by the Boss, thankfully, but by the gospel singer Michelle Moore) — with familiar Springsteen lyrical iconography: American flags, steel wheels, shuttered factories, and suitcases packed for a quick escape.

The New Yorker

After sampling a bit of the merchandise I was sold.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sample a bit of" when you want to suggest trying or experiencing a small portion of something, whether it's food, culture, or an activity. It implies a non-committal, exploratory approach.

Common error

Avoid using "sample a bit of" in highly formal or academic writing. While acceptable in many contexts, it can sound too casual. Opt for phrases like "examine a portion of" or "analyze a segment of" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sample a bit of" functions as a verb phrase, where "sample" acts as the primary verb indicating the action of trying or experiencing something, and "a bit of" quantifies the extent of that action, denoting a small portion. Ludwig provides examples that demonstrate this function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

20%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sample a bit of" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression for suggesting a trial or exploratory experience, with a focus on trying a small quantity. Ludwig confirms its versatility and acceptability across various contexts, primarily appearing in News & Media. Although generally neutral, its use in highly formal settings should be approached with caution, opting for more professional alternatives. As Ludwig AI indicates, the expression is correct and usable in written English for the purpose of referring to trying or experiencing a small portion of something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

try a taste of

Emphasizes the act of tasting, often used in the context of food or drink.

have a little of

A more general phrase indicating a small portion or amount is taken.

experience a fragment of

Suggests experiencing a small, incomplete part of something.

get a glimpse of

Implies a brief and often superficial look or experience.

take a small piece of

Highlights the act of taking a physical piece or portion.

partake in a smattering of

A more formal option suggesting participation in a diverse mix.

dip into

Suggests a brief and casual involvement or exploration.

test the waters of

Indicates a cautious and exploratory approach to something new.

examine a segment of

Focuses on the act of examining a specific portion of something.

explore a fraction of

Highlights the incomplete nature of the exploration.

FAQs

How can I use "sample a bit of" in a sentence?

You can use "sample a bit of" to suggest trying a small portion of something. For example, "Let's sample a bit of the local cuisine while we're here".

What phrases are similar to "sample a bit of"?

Similar phrases include "try a taste of", "have a little of", or "get a glimpse of", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "sample a bit of" in formal writing?

While "sample a bit of" is generally acceptable, it might be too informal for academic or highly professional contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives like "examine a segment of".

What's the difference between "sample a bit of" and "try a bit of"?

"Sample a bit of" often suggests a more deliberate or exploratory approach, while "try a bit of" is a more general phrase for experiencing something new. The difference is subtle and often context-dependent.