use a light

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "use a light" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to turn on or utilize a light source for visibility or illumination. Example: "Please use a light when you enter the dark room to avoid tripping over anything."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

You can even use a light bulb".

The New York Times

Use a light touch with the sandpaper, and carefully feather the edges into the surrounding areas.

The New York Times

I use a light, leafy green, along with pine nuts and raisins.

The New York Times

Use a light hand, and taste the leaves first to see how strong they are.

The New York Times - Food

All this was obvious in her unwillingness to use a light.

The New Yorker

In general, it's good to use a light variety in baking.

The New York Times - Food

Use a light touch, but a little pressure to help balls become round and compact.

The New York Times - Food

An alternative approach is to use a light sail propelled by microwave radiation beamed from Earth.

MIT Technology Review

I use a light dusting of icing sugar to stop it sticking to the work surface.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Even though you're covering a lot of area, use a light touch.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Use a light terracotta or pink blush.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to apply a product or substance, specify the desired intensity by advising to "use a light" touch to avoid overapplication or harshness.

Common error

Avoid using "use a light" as a substitute for more specific verbs like "illuminate", "activate", or "apply gently", depending on whether you're referring to turning on a light source or using a gentle approach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use a light" primarily functions as an imperative, instructing the listener or reader to employ a light source for illumination or to apply a gentle approach. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

48%

News & Media

42%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "use a light" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression with two primary interpretations: employing a light source for illumination and applying something gently. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and commonly used. Predominantly found in Wiki and News & Media sources, it serves to instruct or guide. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the type of light if necessary or clarifying the context of gentleness. Alternatives like "turn on a light" or "apply gently" may provide more precision depending on the intent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

employ a lamp

Replaces "light" with a specific type of light source, "lamp".

utilize a flashlight

Specifies the light source as a "flashlight".

switch on a lamp

Focuses on the action of turning on a light source.

turn on a light

Simple command to illuminate a space.

illuminate with a lamp

Emphasizes the action of providing light with a "lamp".

make use of a lamp

Expresses employing a "lamp" in more formal way.

handle with care

Emphasizes a gentle approach, differing from the literal light usage.

apply gently

Similar to "handle with care", but focuses on application rather than illumination.

be delicate

Suggests being cautious and gentle.

go easy on

Informal way to advise a gentle or restrained approach.

FAQs

How can I rephrase the instruction "use a light"?

Depending on the context, you might say "turn on a light" if you mean illumination. Alternatively, if you mean to be gentle, consider "apply gently" or "handle with care".

What does it mean to "use a light" touch?

To "use a light" touch means to handle something with gentleness and care, avoiding excessive force or pressure. It's often used when applying makeup, sanding surfaces, or mixing ingredients.

Is it correct to say "using a light" instead of "use a light"?

"Using a light" is grammatically correct, but changes the sentence structure. "Use a light" is typically an imperative, a direct instruction. "Using a light" can be part of a longer descriptive sentence. For example: "Using a light allows me to see better".

In what situations would I "use a light"?

You would "use a light" when you need illumination in a dark place, or when you need to apply something gently. For example, "use a light when entering a dark room" or "use a light touch when applying makeup".