What does “Saving grace” mean?
"Saving grace" means a redeeming quality or factor that prevents something from being completely negative or unsuccessful.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Her sense of humor was the saving grace in an otherwise boring meeting.
Example
The delicious dessert was the saving grace of the disappointing meal.
Example
The team's strong defense was their saving grace in a game with poor offense
Is “Saving grace” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Saving grace” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Saving grace” effectively in context?
You can use "Saving Grace" to describe a redeeming quality or factor that prevents something from being completely negative or unsuccessful. It emphasizes the positive aspect in an otherwise unfavorable situation. For example, if someone is talking about a boring meeting, you might say, 'Her sense of humor was the "saving grace" in an otherwise boring meeting.'
- 1Meetings
Her sense of humor was the saving grace in an otherwise boring meeting.
- 2Food
The delicious dessert was the saving grace of the disappointing meal.
- 3Sports
The team's strong defense was their saving grace in a game with poor offense.
Similar phrases to “Saving grace”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Saving grace” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Saving Grace" is unknown.
Is “Saving grace” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Saving Grace" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to highlight a positive aspect or redeeming quality in a situation that would otherwise be negative or unsuccessful.
What tone does “Saving grace” have?
"Saving Grace" conveys a tone of relief and gratitude. It suggests that there is something positive to focus on or be thankful for, even in difficult or disappointing circumstances.
Can “Saving grace” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Saving Grace" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of finding a positive aspect in a negative situation. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The delicious dessert was the "saving grace" of the disappointing meal.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Thank goodness for the "saving grace"!' to express relief or gratitude.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- blessing in disguise
- upside
- benefit
- redeeming feature
- positive aspect
Antonyms
- downside
- disadvantage
- flaw
- deal breaker
- negative aspect
