thin as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thin as a" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as a simile to describe someone or something that is very thin. Example: "After months of dieting, she became as thin as a rail."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Vick was as thin as a post.

The New York Times - Sports

Used to be thin as a rake.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Shiloh was always thin as a bird," Mary said.

The New Yorker

Zombie expressions, Buddy, as thin as a spare dime.

The New Yorker

Colgan is 36, 6' tall & as thin as a stick.

The New Yorker

She is thin as a rail and she's hot.

The Guardian - Film

Each layer of powder is as thin as a human hair.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But smaller scopes, which can be as thin as a human hair, provide poor pictures.

MIT Technology Review

You can use cells as thin as a hundred micrometers, or even thinner.

MIT Technology Review

A backhanded ball cut as thin as a slice-of-life joke.

The Washington Post

In stunning contrast, Ms. Howe is 6 feet tall, as thin as a birch tree.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "thin as a", ensure the comparison is vivid and easily understood by your audience. The effectiveness of the simile depends on the clarity and relatability of the object you are comparing the subject to.

Common error

Avoid relying on overused comparisons like "thin as a rail" without considering if a more original or specific simile would better suit your writing's tone and purpose. Strive for fresh imagery.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thin as a" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase, forming a simile. According to Ludwig, it is utilized to emphasize the extreme slenderness of a subject by comparing it to a commonly recognized thin object. This enhances descriptive writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "thin as a" is a common and grammatically correct simile used to describe something as extremely slender. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and widespread presence across various contexts. While effective, writers should aim for originality in their comparisons to avoid clichés and enhance their descriptive impact. Remember to consider the connotation of your comparison to ensure it aligns with the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slim like

Focuses more on a pleasing slenderness, a gentler connotation of being thin.

slender as

Emphasizes elegance and grace in its thinness.

fine as

Highlights delicacy and slightness.

narrow like

Stresses the lack of width.

slight like

Focuses on a small or delicate build.

lean like

Implies a healthy or athletic thinness, often associated with muscle.

insubstantial as

Conveys a lack of physical substance or weight.

frail as

Suggests a delicate and possibly weakened state.

delicate like

Focuses on the fragility and fineness of something.

attenuated as

Highlights a reduction in size or thickness, often implying a weakening.

FAQs

How can I use "thin as a" in a sentence?

You can use "thin as a" to compare the slenderness of one thing to another, for instance, "He was as thin as a rake after his illness".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "thin as a"?

Consider using alternatives such as "slim like", "slender as", or "lean like" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "thin as a rail" a cliché?

Yes, "thin as a rail" is a common cliché. While easily understood, using more original comparisons can make your writing more impactful. Consider something like "thin as a reed" or "thin as a whisper".

What's the difference between "thin as a" and "skinny as a"?

"Thin as a" generally implies slenderness, while "skinny as a" can sometimes carry a negative connotation, suggesting an unhealthy or bony thinness. The choice depends on the context and the desired tone.