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Scintilla - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Scintilla means a tiny trace or spark of something, often used to emphasize the smallest amount, as in There wasn’t a scintilla of evidence to support the claim.

scintilla

/sɪnˈtɪlə/ /sɪnˈtɪlə/

Definition:

A tiny trace or spark of a specified quality or feeling.

Synonyms:

trace, speck, iota, particle, shred

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

abundance, plethora, multitude

Common Collocations:

scintilla of doubt, scintilla of evidence, scintilla of hope

Derivatives:

scintillate, scintillant, scintillation

Usage Tips:

Use "scintilla" to emphasize an extremely small amount, often in negative contexts like "not a scintilla of proof."

Common Phrases:

not a scintilla of doubt, a scintilla of truth, without a scintilla of evidence

Etymology:

From Latin "scintilla," meaning "spark" or "glimmer."

Examples:

  • 1. There wasn’t a scintilla of truth in his story.
  • 2. She showed not a scintilla of fear during the challenge.
  • 3. The argument lacked even a scintilla of logic.
  • 4. He felt a scintilla of hope despite the odds.

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