toy box

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "toy box" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a container or storage space specifically designed for holding toys. Example: "After playtime, the children were asked to put their toys back in the toy box."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mr. Dahmen gave Toy Box a hug.

The New York Times

The toy box has turned into a toolbox.

The New York Times - Tech

The toy box was inspired by the "Toy Story 3" video game, which included a toy box mode that allowed customized play, similar to the way a child would play with toys: by pulling them randomly from a toy box.

The New York Times

"If it's cheesy, it ends up in the bottom of the toy box.

The New York Times - Magazine

Toy Box was rocketing up Lake St. Clair when Mr. Henderson's cellphone rang.

The New York Times

But when he steered Toy Box up to his dock, no fisticuffs ensued.

The New York Times

A matching pine toy box for random chewies and bones is also available at similar prices.

The New York Times

These dolls, sadly, are ready for the toy box in the sky.

The Guardian

It's well known that for Wes Anderson, the world is one big toy box.

The Guardian - Film

The brands Geoffrey's Toy Box is offering don't have much name recognition, Bolton Weiser said.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

An open-ended digital toy-box, and delightful with it.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about organization in a children's room, use "toy box" or "toy chest" to clearly denote the specific container for storing toys.

Common error

Avoid using "toy box" in metaphorical senses where it doesn't logically fit. For example, instead of saying "The politician pulled ideas from his toy box of policies," use a more appropriate metaphor like "arsenal" or "repertoire."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "toy box" is as a compound noun, referring to a specific type of container. This is supported by Ludwig, which identifies it as a common and acceptable phrase. Its function is to name or identify an object.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "toy box" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a container for toys. As supported by Ludwig, it is considered correct and usable in written English. While predominantly found in neutral to informal contexts, such as news articles and everyday conversations, it is essential to consider the context when employing this phrase. Alternatives include "toy chest" or toy storage. It's also important to avoid using "toy box" in metaphorical senses where it doesn't logically fit and to stick to its primary function as a description or reference to a toy container.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

toy chest

A common alternative term for a container specifically designed for storing toys, often implying a larger, chest-like container.

toy storage

A more general term referring to any method or container used for storing toys, encompassing various types of storage solutions.

plaything container

A formal alternative to indicate a container designated for playthings, suitable for more formal or descriptive contexts.

children's toy container

Specifies the container is intended for children's toys, adding clarity about the user group and type of toys.

toy bin

Implies a simpler, open container for toys, often made of plastic or fabric.

treasure chest of toys

A more imaginative phrase suggesting a valuable collection of toys, often used in a playful or metaphorical context.

toy organizer

Focuses on the organizational aspect of storing toys, implying a system or structure for keeping toys tidy.

kids' toy storage

Informal and specifies that the toy storage is for kids. It also is less formal than "toy storage".

play area

Refers to the designated space where toys are played with and potentially stored, rather than the container itself.

toy room

Indicates a room dedicated to toys and play, expanding the concept beyond a single container.

FAQs

How do I use "toy box" in a sentence?

You can use "toy box" to describe a container for storing toys, as in, "After playing, please put the toys back in the toy box" or "The new toy box is made of sturdy wood".

What's the difference between "toy box" and "toy chest"?

While often used interchangeably, "toy box" generally refers to any container for toys, while "toy chest" often implies a larger, chest-like container specifically designed for toy storage.

What are some synonyms for "toy box"?

Synonyms include "toy chest", toy storage, or "plaything container", depending on the formality and context of your writing.

Is it correct to say "toy box" or should it be "toys box"?

"Toy box" is the correct form. "Toy" acts as an adjective describing the type of box. "Toys box" is grammatically incorrect in this context.