the highlight of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the highlight of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the most exciting, interesting, or memorable part of an event or experience. Example: "The highlight of the concert was when the band played their most popular song."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That was the highlight of my life.

The New Yorker

It's the highlight of the evening.

The New York Times

It was the highlight of my travels.

The New York Times - Travel

It was the highlight of the trip.

The New York Times

That was the highlight of the night".

The New York Times - Sports

It's probably the highlight of my life".

The New York Times - Sports

The highlight of the Edinburgh Art Festival.

The Guardian

That's been the highlight of my Olympics".

The New York Times - Sports

This is the highlight of my year.

The Guardian - Music

"It was the highlight of her life".

The New York Times

"They were the highlight of her life".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the highlight of" to emphasize the most positive or significant aspect of an event, experience, or period. This helps to draw attention to what is most valuable or memorable.

Common error

While "the highlight of" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overuse in formal or academic writing. Consider using more sophisticated synonyms like "the culmination of" or "the defining moment of" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the highlight of" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies the most significant or memorable aspect of something, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Academia

15%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the highlight of" is a versatile phrase used to denote the most memorable or significant aspect of something. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and finds frequent use across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. While appropriate for general use, consider more formal alternatives in academic or professional settings. When using "the highlight of", ensure it accurately reflects the most important or exciting element you wish to emphasize.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the best part of

Focuses on the most enjoyable or positive aspect.

the peak of

Emphasizes the highest point or climax.

the most memorable aspect of

Highlights the most unforgettable element.

the high point of

Similar to "the highlight of", but with a slightly more emphatic tone.

the crowning moment of

Suggests a culminating achievement or event.

the best thing about

Highlights the most positive and appealing feature.

the jewel in the crown of

Implies something of exceptional value or importance.

the most significant event of

Emphasizes the most important occurrence.

the defining moment of

Suggests a pivotal or crucial point.

the apex of

Implies the highest point or culmination of something.

FAQs

How can I use "the highlight of" in a sentence?

You can use "the highlight of" to describe the most memorable or exciting part of something, like in the sentence, "The highlight of the trip was seeing the Eiffel Tower".

What's a more formal alternative to "the highlight of"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "the culmination of", "the pinnacle of", or "the defining moment of".

Is it correct to say "a highlight" instead of "the highlight"?

Yes, "a highlight" is also correct and implies one of several notable moments, while "the highlight" indicates the single most outstanding moment.

What's the difference between "the highlight of" and "the best part of"?

"The highlight of" typically refers to the most memorable or significant part, while "the best part of" usually refers to the most enjoyable or positive aspect. They are often interchangeable, but the specific nuance can vary depending on the context.