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scintilla

/sin'tilə/
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Word: Scintilla

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A scintilla is a very small amount of something. It can also mean a tiny, sparkling particle, like a speck of light.

Usage Instructions:
  • Countable: You can use "scintilla" in both singular and plural forms. The plural is "scintillas."
  • Formal Context: This word is often used in more formal or literary contexts.
Examples:
  1. Basic Example:

    • "There wasn’t a scintilla of doubt in her mind that she would succeed."
    • (Meaning: She had no doubt at all.)
  2. Descriptive Example:

    • "The night sky was filled with scintillas of starlight."
    • (Meaning: There were tiny sparkling stars in the sky.)
Advanced Usage:
  • You might find "scintilla" used in legal or philosophical contexts to refer to a minimal amount of evidence or presence.
  • Example: "The lawyer argued that there was not even a scintilla of proof to support the accusation."
Word Variants:
  • Adjective: Scintillating (meaning sparkling or shining brightly, or, in a different context, brilliant and exciting in conversation or writing).
  • Noun (related): Scintillation (the act of sparkling or a flash of light, often used in scientific contexts).
Different Meanings:
  • In a scientific context, "scintillation" can refer to the flashes of light produced by certain materials when they are excited by radiation.
Synonyms:
  • Tiny amount: Trace, particle, speck, hint, iota, shred.
  • Sparkling particle: Glitter, sparkle, twinkle.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
  • While "scintilla" doesn't have idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to it, you can use phrases like "not a scintilla" to convey "not even a little bit" or "not at all."
Summary:

"Scintilla" is a word you can use when you want to describe a very small amount of something or a tiny sparkling object.

Noun
  1. a sparkling glittering particle
  2. a tiny or scarcely detectable amount

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