Below is a list of some common partitive expressions containing a measure word + an uncountable noun with an example:

✅ an act of kindness 

An act of kindness can make a big difference to someone.

✅ an act of revenge

You should never commit an act of revenge.

✅ a ball of wool

I bought a ball of wool so I could knit you a scarf

✅ a bar of chocolate

I’ve been craving a bar of chocolate all day.

✅ a bit of fun

After working on the project all week, I felt like having a bit of fun.

✅ a blade of grass

After gardening I always find a blade of grass in my hair

✅ a block of ice

I bought a big block of ice to make some drinks.

✅ a bowl of rice

’m going to make a bowl of rice with dinner.

✅ a bowl of soup

I’m going to order a bowl of soup because it’s so cold today.

✅ a breath of fresh air

There are too many people here. I’m going to go outside for a breath of fresh air.

✅ a carton of milk

I’m going to buy a carton of milk at the grocery store.

✅ a cup of tea

Would you like a cup of tea this afternoon?

✅ a cup of coffee

My day doesn’t really begin until I drink a cup of coffee

✅ a coat of paint

The house could use a coat of paint.

✅ a cloud of smoke

Thanks to all of the smokers, when I enter or exit my office I have to walk through a cloud of smoke.

Let’s practice!

Match one of the following partitive nouns to each group of two sentences:

crumb  - dash  - drop -   item - slice  - sliver

1. I didn’t leave a _______________ of bread on my plate.I could only find a few _______________ of information online.

2. I’d just like the smallest _______________ of cake. Be careful, there is still a _______________ or two of broken glass on the ground.

3. The sink isn’t working. When I turn it on, only a _______________ of water comes out. There’s a _______________ of blood on your shirt.

4. All you need is a _______________ of salt and the meal should be complete. This wall needs a _______________ of color to brighten things up in here.

5. For breakfast, I like to have a _______________ of toast with some butter. A _______________ of ham on the sandwich would be great

6. Did you see that _______________ of news last night about the President? She forgot her cell phone charger and an _______________ of clothing.

Do you know any other partitive expressions? Tell us in the comments section and keep practicing with us!