thin layer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thin layer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small or minimal thickness of a material or substance. Example: "The artist applied a thin layer of paint to create a delicate effect on the canvas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Apply only a thin layer of foundation".

The New York Times

A thin layer of silver comes next.

The Economist

Paint in a single thin layer.

The New York Times - Food

Spread with a thin layer of frosting.

The New York Times - Magazine

thin layer of soil.

Journal of the Saudi Society of Agricultural Sciences

"This is a thin layer of ice.

The Guardian

Less if you want a thin layer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

In "additive manufacturing", or 3D printing, machines can actually "print" physical objects ultra-thin layer by ultra-thin layer.

The Guardian - Tech

Compare thin-layer chromatography.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This system became known as thin-layer chromatography (TLC).

Britannica

radio thin-layer chromatography.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the application of a substance, specify the method (e.g., "apply", "spread", "pour") to enhance clarity and provide context.

Common error

Avoid using overly general adjectives like "very" or "really" before "thin". Instead, specify the degree of thinness, such as "ultrathin layer" or "extremely thin layer" if necessary, or choose more descriptive adjectives like "fine" or "delicate".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thin layer" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "thin" is an adjective modifying the noun "layer". It describes a characteristic of the layer, indicating its minimal thickness. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

20%

Science

38%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0.04%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "thin layer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, denoting a minimal thickness of a substance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across diverse writing contexts. As demonstrated by the numerous examples, the phrase appears commonly in News & Media and Science, showing its versatility. While alternative phrases like "slim film" or "light coat" exist, "thin layer" remains a straightforward and widely understood way to describe minimal thickness. When using this phrase, consider specifying the method of application or choosing more descriptive adjectives to enhance precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slim film

Focuses on the minimal thickness of the layer.

fine coating

Emphasizes the delicacy and evenness of the layer.

light coat

Highlights the weightlessness and reduced quantity of the applied material.

scant covering

Indicates that the layer is barely sufficient or minimal.

delicate sheet

Suggests a fragile and thin structure.

thin spread

Describes the action of applying a thin layer over a surface.

minimal overlay

Implies that the layer is very small and placed on top of something.

narrow stratum

A more formal term for a thin layer, often used in scientific contexts.

slight deposit

Suggests that the layer has been gradually placed.

sheer surface

Describes a transparent or nearly transparent thin layer.

FAQs

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

You can use "thin layer" to describe a minimal thickness of a substance, such as "Apply a "thin layer" of sunscreen before going outside" or "The archaeologist carefully brushed away the "thin layer" of dust to reveal the artifact".

What are some alternatives to "thin layer"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "slim film", "fine coating", or "light coat" to describe a minimal thickness of a material.

Is it redundant to say "very thin layer"?

While not strictly redundant, using "very thin layer" can sometimes be replaced with a more precise adjective, such as "ultrathin layer" or "delicate sheet", to provide a clearer description.

In scientific contexts, is "thin layer" a technical term?

Yes, in chemistry, "thin layer chromatography" (TLC) is a common technique. In other scientific fields, ""thin layer"" may simply describe the physical property of a material.