spice

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "spice" is correct, and it is usable in written English.
You can use the word "spice" when referring to a substance, such as a seasoning, that adds flavor to food, or when referring to something that adds interest or excitement to an activity or situation. Example sentence: "Adding a pinch of cinnamon to the sweet potato pie will give it a unique spice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

If it tingles like crazy – and it does for me – that's the trigeminal nerve, which responds to spice.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There is added spice to the encounter because if the Australians do win they are bound to head the medal table for sailing.

The Guardian - Sport

The tour of the spice garden is led by knowledgeable staff who identify everything and let you know all the possible uses.

The Guardian - Travel

A noble dish that once graced the banquet tables of the imperial Mughal court, rich with cream and nuts and heavily scented with expensive spice, has become a byword for bland, a "starter" curry, beloved of children and others with unadventurous tastes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Rosie Birkett, alotonherplate.com This aromatic stew of fruit and veg marries sweetness and spice beautifully.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Traditionally, the ochre was used in everything from decorative arts to wedding ceremonies and even as a spice for fish and torshi (pickled vegetables).

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Mix together the salt, 5-spice and crushed peppercorns.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Spice-wise, I like the fresh flavour of the coriander Saveur, Thompson and Vongerichten use – toasting the seeds and grinding them fresh, as the latter two suggest, brings out their flavour – but I don't find that cumin, fennel, turmeric and chilli add much.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

With every season in which the assembled fashion industry enjoys the spectacle of Anna Wintour engaged in an amiable front-row chat with David Beckham, another nail is struck in the coffin of the ex-Spice-Girl tag.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Put a spatula in it, it's done".Nancy Lloyd, a former editor at Family Circle, explains why Laura Bush's oatmeal chocolate-chunk recipe will beat Teresa Kerry's pumpkin-spice cookies in the magazine's cookie-recipe contest.

The Economist

But, having proved their model worked, Dr Axtell and Dr Epstein went on to add complexity to it in the form of a second resource-- spice".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "spice" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to adding excitement, interest, or a specific quality.

Common error

Avoid using "spice" too frequently as a metaphor, as it can become cliché. Explore alternative expressions like "interest", "excitement", or specific descriptive adjectives to add nuance.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "spice" is as a noun, referring to a substance used to flavor food. As Ludwig AI also highlights, it can function metaphorically to denote something that adds interest or excitement. It can also function as a verb to describe the action of adding spice to something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spice" is a versatile term functioning primarily as a noun to describe both culinary and metaphorical enhancements. As Ludwig AI points out, it accurately reflects its dual role: flavoring food and adding interest. Its usage is widespread, particularly in News & Media, with a neutral formality level. When writing, be mindful of overuse in metaphorical contexts and consider alternatives for added nuance. The numerous examples provided by Ludwig highlight its adaptability and common usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flavoring

Focuses specifically on the act of adding flavor, often in a culinary context.

seasoning

Highlights the addition of ingredients to improve taste, commonly in cooking.

flavor enhancer

Specifically refers to ingredients that boost the taste of food.

condiment

Refers to a prepared substance added to food to enhance its flavor.

kick

Emphasizes the stimulating or exciting aspect something adds.

zing

Indicates a lively or sharp quality.

interest

Highlights the quality of being engaging or attractive.

excitement

Focuses on the thrill and enthusiasm something brings.

variety

Indicates a range of different things, adding richness.

piquancy

Emphasizes a pleasantly sharp and stimulating taste or quality.

FAQs

How can I use "spice" in a sentence?

You can use "spice" to refer to a seasoning for food, as in, "Add a dash of cinnamon for extra spice". You can also use it metaphorically, as in, "The new plot twist added spice to the story".

What's a good alternative to "spice" when talking about food?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "flavoring", "seasoning", or "condiment".

How can I use "spice" to describe something other than food?

When describing something non-culinary, "spice" can be used to denote added interest or excitement. For example, "A bit of controversy can add spice to a debate".

What is the difference between "spice" and "herb"?

"Spices" are typically made from the seeds, bark, roots, or fruits of plants, while "herbs" are usually the leafy green parts. Both are used to add flavor to food, but they come from different parts of the plant.