a bulging

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bulging" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is swollen, protruding, or expanded, often in a physical context. Example: "He noticed a bulging suitcase in the corner of the room, overflowing with clothes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a bulging folder, too.

The Guardian - Books

A bulging disk was diagnosed in July.

The New York Times - Sports

A bulging Rolodex is a prerequisite.

The New York Times

He is also competing with a bulging, broken right wrist.

The New York Times - Sports

He nodded, picking up a bulging plastic supermarket bag.

The New York Times

Doctors diagnosed a bulging disk, which has since receded.

The New York Times - Sports

A bulging green apple fills a room, floor to ceiling.

The New York Times - Arts

It has been fed by a bulging youth population and access to social media.

The New York Times

Cooperman keeps a bulging manila folder of congratulatory notes in his office at Omega.

The New Yorker

Chandler missed 10 games after doctors discovered a bulging disk in his neck in mid-March.

The New York Times

Amazon has a bulging library of the best shows you've never seen.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bulging" to vividly describe physical objects or conditions that are expanded beyond their normal size. It's particularly effective when you want to convey a sense of fullness or excess.

Common error

Avoid using "a bulging" to describe abstract concepts like "a bulging ego" or "a bulging idea". While metaphorically understandable, it's less impactful than more precise terms like "an inflated ego" or "an expansive idea".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bulging" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective modifying a noun. It adds detail by indicating that the noun is expanded or protruding, as supported by Ludwig and its real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bulging" is a versatile phrase used to describe something that is expanded, swollen, or protruding. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and commonly found in diverse sources, including news, science, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended image of fullness or excess. While broadly applicable, avoid using it in abstract contexts where more precise language would be more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bulging with

Emphasizes what the object is full of, adding a layer of specificity.

a bulging out

Explicitly indicates outward movement and expansion.

a swollen

Focuses more on the swelling aspect, implying inflammation or abnormal enlargement.

a protruding

Emphasizes the act of sticking out or extending beyond a surface.

an expanded

Highlights the increase in size or volume.

an overfilled

Indicates that something is filled to excess, causing it to bulge.

an inflated

Suggests a filling with air or gas, causing enlargement.

a distended

Implies stretching or widening, often beyond normal limits.

a protuberant

A more formal way of saying protruding or sticking out.

a tumescent

Describes swelling, often with a sense of tension or pressure.

FAQs

How can I use "a bulging" in a sentence?

You can use "a bulging" to describe something that is swollen, protruding, or expanded, for example, "a bulging bag" or "a bulging disk".

What's a good alternative to "a bulging"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a swollen", "a protruding", or "an expanded" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "a bulging"?

"A bulging" is appropriate when you want to describe a physical object or condition that appears to be expanded, swollen, or protruding, often implying a sense of fullness or pressure. For example, "a bulging folder".

Is "a bulging" formal or informal?

"A bulging" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, as demonstrated by its presence in news articles, medical reports, and everyday conversation.