the residue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the residue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to what remains after a process, such as a chemical reaction or a physical separation. Example: "After the experiment, we analyzed the residue left in the beaker to determine the composition of the substances used."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The residue could last.

The New York Times - Sports

The residue is used as cattle cake.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Molasses was the residue of refining sugar.

The New Yorker

We also bear witness to the residue.

The New York Times - Arts

The residue can be used as fertiliser.

The Guardian

Shake out excess, leaving only the residue.

The New York Times - Style

The residue is particularly bitter in Gaza.

The New Yorker

"It is the residue that is the problem.

The Guardian

This is just the residue, you know, left over.

The New York Times

There was no alternative but to lick the residue out.

The New Yorker

There is also the residue of old socialist dreaming.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the residue", clearly specify what process or event caused the residue to remain. This provides context and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "the residue" to describe purely abstract concepts without linking it to a tangible process or event. Ensure there is a clear connection to a physical or observable action that produced the remaining substance or effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the residue" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig showcases its use across diverse contexts, consistently denoting what remains after a process or event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the residue" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote what remains after a process or event. Ludwig's analysis confirms its frequent appearance across various sources, including News & Media and Science, indicative of its versatility. While versatile, consider specifying the origin of "the residue" to avoid ambiguity. Understanding its common errors—like using it abstractly—helps in crafting clearer, more impactful sentences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the remainder

Focuses on the quantity left over.

the remnant

Emphasizes a small surviving part.

the leftovers

Specifically implies something remaining from a meal or process.

the deposit

Refers to material left after a physical process.

the sedimentation

Describes the process or material that settles at the bottom of a liquid.

the dregs

Refers to the least valuable part that remains.

the aftermath

Focuses on the consequences or remains after an event.

the sediment

Describes solid material that settles from a liquid.

the deposition

The act of residue being left behind, or material settling out of a solution.

the vestige

Emphasizes a trace or sign of something that no longer exists.

FAQs

How can I use "the residue" in a sentence?

You can use "the residue" to refer to what remains after a process. For example, "The lab analyzed "the residue" from the experiment" or "The residue of the fire was still smoldering."

What's a good substitute for "the residue"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "the remainder", "the remnant", or "the leftovers". The best choice depends on what type of substance or impact you're describing.

Is it ever incorrect to use "the residue"?

While generally correct, using "the residue" might be inappropriate if the context requires a more specific term. For instance, if you're discussing financial matters, "the residual" might be more accurate.

What's the difference between "the residue" and "the remains"?

"The residue" typically refers to what's left after a process or chemical reaction, whereas "the remains" often implies what's left of something that has been destroyed or has died, such as "the remains of a building" or "human remains".