to my affection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to my affection" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or unclear.
It could be used in a context where someone is expressing their feelings or emotions towards someone or something, but it is not a standard expression. Example: "I have always held a special place in my heart for her, to my affection."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

And caressing the tomatoes at the Rue Mouffetard market in Paris is worth it, even when the response to my affection is a slap on the hand.

The New York Times - Travel

"If you stay, even if you go to prison, you will always be my son; it will make no difference to my affection," she told him in the brief moment when he could have fled the country after the collapse of his second trial.

The Guardian - Books

I saw no difference between them, they were all my dolls with equal access to my affection.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Emina uses honey, Gail's golden syrup, Lebovitz maple syrup, Bon Appetit agave syrup and Rolleri brown rice syrup – they're all much of a muchness in terms of effectiveness, but honey has the best flavour, and certainly works out cheaper than its nearest rival to my affections, golden syrup.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I have wanted to do something to express my affection for New York and my pride in its recovery," she writes.

The New York Times

I wanted to thank her, tenderly, to express my affection and respect and sympathy.

Vice

– for an adult to admit, I still have yet to outgrow my affection for Beakman's World.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I guess I'm saying that now I understand those list-making lovers of obscure films, and to prove it, I'd like to express my affection for Young Ones, a film written and directed by Jake Paltrow that you almost certainly haven't heard of but definitely shouldn't miss.

Huffington Post

He added that his intention was to "convey my affection and admiration for Rocco's everyman qualities and had absolutely nothing to do with his heritage".

The New York Times - Sports

My return to England was celebrated by bread going on ration, so that there was nothing really to engender my affection for the country".

The Guardian - Books

London tries to reject my affection.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When expressing affection, consider using more common phrases like "for my affection" or "towards my affection" to enhance clarity and naturalness.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "to my affection" in formal or professional contexts where clarity and directness are crucial. Instead, opt for more standard expressions of fondness or regard.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to my affection" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to indicate the recipient or focus of one's affection. It specifies where or towards whom the affection is directed. Ludwig indicates it's not a standard expression.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to my affection" is a somewhat uncommon way to express fondness or care, functioning as a prepositional phrase to direct affection towards a specific object or person. Ludwig notes that while not grammatically incorrect, it's not a standard expression and may sound awkward. Its usage is mostly found in news and media contexts, and it leans towards an informal register. For clarity and impact, especially in formal settings, consider using more conventional alternatives such as "for my affection" or "towards my affection". Overall, while "to my affection" can add character to creative writing, it's crucial to weigh its uncommonness against the need for clear and direct communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for my fondness

Replaces "affection" with "fondness", offering a slightly less intense emotion.

with my fondness

Replaces "affection" with the phrase "with fondness", indicating a less intense emotion.

towards my liking

Substitutes "affection" with "liking", indicating a preference or enjoyment.

in my regard

Uses "regard" to convey a sense of respect and positive feeling.

in my heart

Implies deep emotional connection and love.

concerning my adoration

Using adoration instead of affection expresses a strong love and admiration.

as for my love

Love is the primary emotion here, which emphasizes an emotional connection.

regarding my soft spot

Replaces "affection" with "soft spot", suggesting a particular fondness or vulnerability.

as concerns my care

Expresses a caring attitude instead of affection and emphasizes the subject of caring.

in relation to my partiality

Partiality is used to indicate favoritism, which makes the phrase more appropriate in particular settings.

FAQs

How can I express affection more clearly?

Consider using phrases like "for my affection" or "towards my affection". Clearer phrasing enhances understanding.

Is "to my affection" grammatically incorrect?

While not strictly incorrect, it's less common. "For my affection" is often preferred for better flow.

What's a more common alternative to "to my affection"?

Alternatives include "in my regard", "for my fondness", or "towards my liking" depending on context.

In what contexts is "to my affection" best used?

It is best used in informal writing or creative contexts where a slightly unconventional expression adds character. It's less suitable for formal or professional settings.