smooth paste

USAGE SUMMARY

'smooth paste' is an acceptable and appropriate phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to a thick, viscous mixture of ingredients, such as a type of adhesive, mortar, or cosmetic. For example, "After mixing up the ingredients, I applied a thick, smooth paste to the wall in order to secure the tiles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Blitz to a smooth paste.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Puree to make a thick, smooth paste.

The New York Times - Food

Process again to make a smooth paste.

The New York Times - Food

Mix well, until you have a smooth paste.

The Guardian

Chop or blend the pork fat to a smooth paste.

The New York Times

Process until the mixture forms a fairly smooth paste.

The New York Times - Magazine

2. Simmer beans, then mash to a smooth paste.

The New York Times - Food

Add both garlics and the soy sauce, and blitz or pound to a smooth paste.

The Guardian

Process until the garlic is a smooth paste and the spices are finely ground.

The Washington Post

Add the flour, stirring constantly, to make a smooth paste or roux.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Beat together until the chocolate has melted and it is a smooth paste.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a food preparation process, use "smooth paste" to indicate the desired consistency after blending or mixing ingredients.

Common error

Avoid using "smooth paste" when a more descriptive adjective would be appropriate. For example, instead of "a smooth paste of mud", consider "a fine layer of mud" if the smoothness isn't the primary characteristic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smooth paste" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "smooth" modifies the noun "paste". This phrase describes a substance or mixture with a consistent and even texture. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is used across a number of contexts to label certain textures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "smooth paste" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the texture of a substance, particularly in cooking, crafts, and other practical contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, this term is widely understood and accepted. While alternatives like "homogenous blend" or "creamy mixture" exist, "smooth paste" is a direct and effective way to convey the desired consistency. When using this phrase, consider the specific context and audience to ensure the most appropriate and descriptive language is used. The phrase enjoys frequent use across both news media and instructional wikis, solidifying its place in everyday communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

homogenous blend

Emphasizes the uniformity of the mixture, highlighting the absence of lumps or separation.

creamy mixture

Focuses on the texture, suggesting a rich and velvety consistency.

fine slurry

Implies a slightly more liquid consistency than a paste, but still smooth.

even consistency

Highlights the uniformity in texture throughout the substance.

refined emulsion

Suggests a more technical or scientific context, referring to a stable mixture of liquids.

velvety texture

Focuses on the tactile quality, suggesting a luxurious and soft feel.

consistent spread

Emphasizes the ability to apply the substance evenly over a surface.

uniform mix

Highlights the even distribution of ingredients within the blend.

ground preparation

Describes something prepared by grinding, resulting in a uniform, smooth texture.

pureed preparation

Describes something prepared via pureeing, resulting in a uniform, smooth texture.

FAQs

How can I use "smooth paste" in a sentence?

You can use "smooth paste" to describe the consistency of a mixture. For example, "Blend the ingredients until they form a "smooth paste"."

What are some alternatives to "smooth paste"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "homogenous blend", "creamy mixture", or "fine slurry".

Is it better to describe something as a "smooth paste" or a "fine paste"?

"Smooth paste" generally refers to a mixture with a consistent, lump-free texture, while "fine paste" emphasizes the small particle size. The best choice depends on the specific characteristic you want to highlight.

In culinary contexts, is "smooth paste" a desirable characteristic?

Yes, in many culinary applications, achieving a "smooth paste" is desirable as it indicates proper blending and a pleasing texture. This is often sought when making sauces, dips, or marinades.