weave a spell

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "weave a spell" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to magic, enchantment, or creating a captivating atmosphere or narrative. Example: "The author was able to weave a spell with her words, drawing readers into a world of fantasy and wonder."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"I could weave a spell to clear it," Brendan says.

The New Yorker

It's typical of works by Hammons to repel at first glance and weave a spell on successive viewings.

The New Yorker

Ms. Huber steps in to weave a spell and the long red gut is pulled from the couple to form a star design.

The New York Times - Arts

Ms. Marcovicci may be the ultimate example of a cabaret performer who conquers through charm and the ability to weave a spell.

The New York Times

The film's engagement with race, culture and class together with its staggeringly choreographed setpieces and sublimely inspired incidental detail all come together with Yalitza Aparicio's wonderful lead performance to weave a spell.

The Guardian - Film

All this mad invention, bathed in a radiant score by Burton Lane (music) and E. Y . Harburg(lyrics), combined to weave a spell of happy enchantment when the musical opened, to play for an impressive 725 performances.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But why is he weaving a spell, and out of such unpleasant material?

The New Yorker

Or if you prefer, Harry Potter's Hagrid weaving a spell as a potentially dodgy detective.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Nauman's work often weaves a spell that might be called ready-to-wear narcissism — an acute self-awareness belonging to no one in particular.

The New Yorker

But when she slides through a midtempo ballad like "This Time the Dream's on Me" or pines sweetly through "Over the Rainbow," she weaves a spell.

The New York Times - Arts

Instead Yanagihara wove a spell, and many of us – including myself – left the theatre thinking that to endure violence in a book is to be a more empathetic human being.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "weave a spell" to describe the creation of a captivating or enchanting atmosphere, story, or performance. It implies a delicate and skillful creation of something magical or alluring.

Common error

Avoid using "weave a spell" in literal contexts involving actual weaving or magical spells. The phrase is best used metaphorically to describe creating enchantment or influence, not the physical act of weaving or performing magic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weave a spell" functions as a verb phrase, where "weave" is the verb and "a spell" is the direct object. It describes the action of creating something enchanting or captivating. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Arts

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "weave a spell" is a versatile and evocative expression used to describe the creation of an enchanting or captivating effect. Grammatically sound and neutrally registered, it finds frequent use in news, arts, and literature. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not overly common, it carries a strong metaphorical weight, suggesting a skillful and delicate creation that holds the audience's attention. Alternatives such as "cast a spell" or "captivate the audience" offer similar connotations, but the unique imagery of weaving provides a distinct flavor. Remember to use it metaphorically and avoid literal interpretations to maintain its intended impact. In conclusion, it's a correct and usable phrase that means creating a captivating atmosphere or narrative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cast a spell

Replaces "weave" with "cast", focusing on the action of applying a spell.

create enchantment

Substitutes the metaphorical "spell" with the direct term "enchantment", emphasizing the magical effect.

enchant the audience

Shifts the focus to the effect on the audience, using "enchant" as a verb.

work magic

Uses "work" instead of "weave", retaining the concept of magic.

captivate the audience

Replaces the magical connotation with a broader term for holding attention.

create a magical atmosphere

Emphasizes the environment created rather than the direct act of casting a spell.

exert influence

Removes the magical element and focuses on the power to affect someone.

conjure a feeling

Replaces "spell" with "feeling", focusing on emotional impact.

exert a hypnotic effect

Focuses on the entrancing quality, replacing "spell" with a more scientific term.

create an illusion

Moves away from enchantment to the concept of creating a false impression.

FAQs

What does "weave a spell" mean?

The phrase "weave a spell" metaphorically means to create a captivating or enchanting effect, often through skillful storytelling, performance, or artistry. It suggests a delicate and compelling creation that holds the audience's attention.

What can I say instead of "weave a spell"?

You can use alternatives like "cast a spell", "create enchantment", or "captivate the audience" depending on the context.

Is "weave a spell" formal or informal?

"Weave a spell" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal expression. It can be used in various contexts, including literature, arts reviews, and even some news reporting, without sounding out of place.

How can I use "weave a spell" in a sentence?

You might say, "The author was able to "weave a spell" with her words, drawing readers into a world of fantasy and wonder," or "The music and lighting combined to "weave a spell" over the audience during the performance."