what a gem

USAGE SUMMARY

'what a gem' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something or someone that is highly valuable or admirable. For example, "She is an amazing artist – what a gem!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

What a gem it is.

The Guardian - Film

"The public doesn't realize what a gem this place is," she said.

The New York Times

I hope the locals realise what a gem they have here.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Giuliani recognized what a gem this place is," Mr. Rosenbaum continued.

The New York Times

The resulting book is "Family Life", and what a gem it is.In this section Flights of fantasy The big fight A chip and a chair Herr Howzat?

The Economist

County Executive Andrew J. Spano, said: "The numbers show that Westchester residents are realizing what a gem of a park they have right here in the county.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

To the Editor: What a true gem you led us to in "Cheery Cosseting on Beacon Hill" (Travel Advisory, June 3) at the Beacon Hill Hotel and Bistro.

The New York Times - Travel

What a fucking gem!

Vice

In emphasizing the concert's idealism, however, it's easy to overlook what a musical gem this two-disc set is".

Wikipedia

What a seemingly artless little gem!

The New Yorker

That is what makes it a gem.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what a gem" to express genuine appreciation and admiration for someone's character, talent, or actions. It adds a touch of warmth and sincerity to your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "what a gem" in highly formal or professional settings where a more measured and objective tone is expected. Choose more appropriate phrases such as "highly valuable asset" or "significant contribution".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what a gem" functions as an exclamatory expression used to convey strong admiration or appreciation. It highlights the exceptional qualities or value of a person, object, or situation. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what a gem" is a commonly used, grammatically correct exclamatory phrase that expresses strong admiration or appreciation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as academia. While mostly informal, it effectively conveys positive sentiment. Alternative phrases like "what a jewel" or "what a treasure" can be used for similar effect, although some may be more appropriate in certain formal situations. Be mindful of overuse in very formal settings, where a more objective tone is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what a jewel

Synonymous replacement of "gem" with "jewel", emphasizing preciousness and worth.

what a treasure

Substitutes "gem" with "treasure", highlighting the rarity and value of the subject.

what a stone

Replaces "gem" with "stone", maintaining a similar sense of value and admiration, though perhaps with a slightly different connotation.

what a marvel

Replaces "gem" with "marvel", focusing on the wondrous and impressive nature of the subject.

what a wonder

Similar to "what a marvel", emphasizing the awe-inspiring nature of the subject.

what a find

Emphasizes the act of discovering something valuable, similar to finding a "gem".

what a delight

Shifts the focus to the pleasure and enjoyment derived from the subject, rather than its inherent value.

what a gift

Implies the subject is a blessing or something to be cherished, similar to a precious "gem".

what a beauty

Highlights the aesthetic appeal of the subject, similar to appreciating a "gem" for its visual qualities.

what a star

Suggests the subject has exceptional talent or shines brightly, like a "gem".

FAQs

What does the expression "what a gem" mean?

The expression "what a gem" is used to express admiration and appreciation for someone or something considered to be of high value, exceptional quality, or particularly delightful.

How can I use "what a gem" in a sentence?

You can use "what a gem" to describe a person or thing you find particularly wonderful. For example, "She's always willing to help others; /s/what+a+gem" or "This hidden café is /s/what+a+gem!"

What can I say instead of "what a gem"?

You can use alternatives like "what a treasure", "what a jewel", or "what a delight" depending on the context.

Is "what a gem" appropriate for formal writing?

While "what a gem" is widely understood and accepted, it's generally better suited for informal or conversational contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives that convey a similar sentiment with a more professional tone.