soupÀon

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A small amount; a trace: "soupçon" refers to a very small quantity or a subtle hint of something, often used for abstract qualities like flavor, emotion, or suspicion.
    • A slight suspicion or touch: In figurative use, it can mean a faint suggestion or a barely perceptible quality.
Usage Examples

  • As a small amount:

    • The sauce needs a soupçon of garlic to bring out the flavor. (A very small, almost imperceptible amount of garlic.)
    • She added a soupçon of salt to the soup. (A tiny pinch of salt.)

  • As a trace or hint:

    • There was a soupçon of jealousy in his voice. (A slight trace of envy.)
    • The painting has a soupçon of melancholy. (A faint, subtle feeling of sadness.)
Advanced Usage
  • "a soupçon of irony": a very small amount of ironic quality.
    • Her smile held a soupçon of irony. (A barely noticeable ironic tone.)
  • "with a soupçon of doubt": with a tiny amount of uncertainty.
    • He accepted the offer with a soupçon of doubt. (With a slight, lingering suspicion.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Soupon (noun, rare variant): an alternative spelling, less common in modern English.
    • The recipe calls for a soupon of nutmeg. (A very small amount.)
  • Souponner (verb, French origin): to suspect or have a slight suspicion (rarely used in English).
    • I souponner that he is hiding something. (I have a faint suspicion.)
Synonyms
  • Hint: a small or indirect suggestion or trace.
  • Touch: a very small amount.
  • Dash: a small quantity (often used in cooking).
  • Smidgen: a very small amount (informal).
  • Whiff: a faint trace or scent.
Phrasal Verbs
  • : "soupçon" is not typically used in phrasal verbs. It is primarily a noun.
Related Idioms
  • A soupçon of something: a very small amount.
    • The speech had a soupçon of humor. (A tiny, subtle humorous element.)
  • Not a soupçon: no amount at all.
    • There was not a soupçon of truth in his story. (Absolutely no truth.)
Notes on Usage
  • Formality: "soupçon" is a somewhat formal or literary word, often used to add elegance or precision when describing subtle qualities.
  • Origin: Borrowed from French, where it means "suspicion" or "a small amount." In English, it retains the sense of a trace or hint rather than full suspicion.