saving grace

USAGE SUMMARY

"saving grace" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a redeeming quality in someone or something that is of great help in a difficult situation, or to refer to a divine intervention that leads to one's salvation. Example: His saving grace was the timely arrival of his friends, who helped him through the difficult situation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Opinion

Technology

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Saving grace?

Independent

My love, my saving grace,.

The New Yorker

Playfulness was Mozart's saving grace.

The New Yorker

"He's our saving grace".

The New York Times

The saving grace?

The New York Times - Sports

What has been her saving grace?

The Guardian - Opinion

That was the saving grace, for Artie.

The New York Times - Books

But Rudo has one "saving grace".

The Guardian

Mr. Payne makes her a saving grace.

The New York Times

There is one saving grace.

The Guardian - Tech

That is our saving grace.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "saving grace", ensure the context clearly establishes the negative situation or shortcomings from which this grace provides relief or redemption. Be specific about what it is redeeming.

Common error

Avoid using "saving grace" in situations that are already predominantly positive. The phrase implies a need for redemption, so use it when highlighting a benefit that counteracts a significant flaw or problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "saving grace" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a redeeming quality or factor that compensates for flaws or difficulties, aligning with Ludwig AI's assessment of its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Books

11%

Opinion

9%

Less common in

Technology

7%

Sports

7%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "saving grace" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes a redeeming quality or factor, often used to counterbalance a negative situation or a flaw. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, books, and opinion pieces, it highlights a positive aspect that provides relief or justification. While generally neutral, it can lean towards informality depending on the specific context. It's important to use it accurately, ensuring that a clear negative situation or shortcoming is being offset by the "saving grace". Alternatives include "redeeming quality" and "one good thing", which can be used based on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

redeeming feature

Focuses on the positive aspect that compensates for flaws.

redeeming quality

Highlights the positive attribute that excuses or justifies shortcomings.

one redeeming factor

Highlights the aspect that compensates for problems.

one good thing

A more general term for a positive aspect amid negativity.

single advantage

Emphasizes the sole benefit or positive element.

chief merit

Highlights the primary positive aspect.

blessing in disguise

Suggests an initially negative situation with a hidden benefit.

the only positive aspect

Highlights the one favorable part of an otherwise unfavorable situation.

stroke of luck

Focuses on the element of chance or fortunate circumstances.

silver lining

Emphasizes the hopeful or positive side of a negative situation.

FAQs

How can I use "saving grace" in a sentence?

Use "saving grace" to describe a redeeming quality or aspect that compensates for a negative situation or shortcoming. For instance, "His humor was the "saving grace" during the difficult meeting."

What's a more formal alternative to "saving grace"?

In more formal contexts, consider using "redeeming quality" or "chief merit" to convey a similar meaning with a higher degree of formality.

Is it correct to use "saving grace" to describe a person?

Yes, "saving grace" can describe a quality within a person that compensates for their flaws or shortcomings. For example, "Her empathy was her "saving grace", making her a valuable friend."

What is the difference between "saving grace" and "blessing in disguise"?

"Saving grace" refers to a specific redeeming quality, while "blessing in disguise" suggests that an initially negative situation ultimately leads to positive outcomes. The former focuses on a trait, and the latter focuses on an event.