shade

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shade" can be correct and usable in written English, depending on the context.
It is often used in informal contexts to refer to subtle or indirect criticism or insult towards someone. Example: "Her comment about my outfit was just a little shade, but I brushed it off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Verdict: FMNR is an inexpensive way for farmers to make improvements with the resources they already have, increasing millet harvests from 430kg to 750kg a hectare, and saving money on fertilisers, with restored trees producing leaf litter (forming humus) and giving shade to livestock (for manure).

The Guardian

In the two restaurants, with outdoor seats under shade, I ate delicious Moroccan/French dishes, such as spiced quail with herbs from the garden.

The Guardian - Travel

The Iris sandal, handwoven in leather macramé, the classic tan shade set off by a cascade of yellow, red, green and blue resin beads, is what every modern-day Apfel will be wearing in Ibiza this summer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The garden can get hot in summer, and the wisteria on the pergola provides much-needed shade.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I had grown up with her pictures and was in awe of her, and also taken aback by the mismatch between the soft, deep, clear beauty of her black-and-white photos that contain every shade and grain of grey and the unassuming, unadorned figure she cut.

The Guardian - Arts

Mix everything together, the theory goes, and you come up with an unappealing shade of beige.

The Guardian - Music

Inconceivable though it may seem, we must not discount the possibility of a universe where English cricket is not just going to be run a different shade of idiotically, as indicated by the apparent wild goose chase upon which Graves dispatched Pietersen as almost his first act within the job.

The Guardian - Sport

It's a shade soft – I'd put it in the freezer over dinner for perfection.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As the school day draws to a close, Kalavathi gathers the children under the shade of the school's iconic Flame tree or 'Gulmohar' in Hindi.

The Guardian

Near one shelter in Delhi, dozens of men tried to keep cool in the shade of nearby trees.

The Guardian

Give them a warm summer's day, and they lie around in the shade.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "shade" to describe a color, be specific about the hue and its relationship to other colors (e.g., "a light shade of blue-green").

Common error

Avoid using "shade" in formal or academic writing to mean subtle criticism or insult. Opt for more direct and professional language such as "subtle criticism" or "implied disapproval".

Linguistic Context

The word "shade" functions primarily as a noun referring to darkness or a variety of color, and as a verb meaning to shield from light or alter slightly. Ludwig examples showcase its use in diverse contexts, highlighting its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "shade" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and a verb, commonly used to describe areas of darkness, varieties of color, or the act of shielding from light. As confirmed by Ludwig, its grammatical usage is correct, and it appears very frequently in various contexts, especially in news and media. While the term maintains a generally neutral register, using expressions like "throw shade" is considered informal. Remember to use it accurately and appropriately, especially avoiding informal uses in professional settings. Be mindful of the subtle differences between "shade" and similar terms like "shadow", "tint", and "hue".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shadow

A direct synonym, focusing on the dark area created by blocked light.

tint

Refers specifically to a lighter version of a color, the opposite of a shade.

nuance

Highlights the subtle difference in meaning or expression.

degree

Emphasizes a slight amount or level of something.

cover

Focuses on the act of shielding from light or other elements.

hint

Suggests a subtle indication or trace.

tinge

Implies a slight coloring or influence.

screen

Highlights the act of protecting or concealing.

veil

Emphasizes a partial obscuring or covering.

shelter

Focuses on protection from harm or discomfort.

FAQs

How can I use "shade" in a sentence?

You can use "shade" to refer to an area of darkness created by something blocking light (e.g., "We sat in the shade of the tree") or to a particular variety of a color (e.g., "That wall is painted in a lovely shade of blue"). It can also mean a slight amount, or to cast a shadow over something.

What is the difference between "shade" and "shadow"?

"Shade" refers to the relative darkness and coolness caused by the interception of light, while "shadow" is the dark shape cast by an object blocking light. Although they are often used interchangeably, "shade" focuses more on the protected area, while "shadow" refers to the visual shape.

What can I say instead of "shade" when referring to color?

Depending on the context, you could use "tint", "hue", "tone", or "color". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to "throw shade" in professional settings?

Generally, no. The expression "throw shade" refers to subtle or indirect criticism and is considered informal. It's best to use direct and respectful language in professional environments.