a circle of light

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a circle of light" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a physical phenomenon, a metaphorical concept, or an artistic representation involving light. Example: "As the sun set, a circle of light illuminated the clearing, creating a magical atmosphere."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

You'll end up with a circle of light around the dark shape, with lighted details.

WikiHow

A circle of light, a centre of Talk.

The Guardian - Books

In each corner of the stage stands a dancer, isolated in a circle of light.

The New York Times - Arts

A stranger appeared in a circle of light and said, "I love you".

The New Yorker

Standing in a circle of light, LaVette began in a confiding tone, and ended in a raspy, full-throated cry.

The New Yorker

When DeMent said the morning star shed its beams on her, Silvers doggedly walked the entire periphery of a circle of light on the stage.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Another strong design, "Inversion of Light," by Toshio Sasaki, calls for the footprint of the south tower to become a reflecting pool above a circle of lights.

The New Yorker

The south tower's footprint would become a reflecting pool above a circle of lights.

The New York Times

The tsunami did have one temporary, picturesque effect on Waikiki Beach: a circle of lights, like a new skyline, a mile offshore, where boats from local marinas had gone to ride out the storm.

The New York Times

She went to sleep one night, and she saw a circle of lights.

Vice

Light is emitted by a circle of light-emitting diodes.

Annals of Intensive Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a circle of light" to create a sense of focus or isolation in your writing. For example, you could describe a stage performer standing in "a circle of light" to emphasize their presence.

Common error

Avoid overusing "a circle of light" in metaphorical contexts if it doesn't add meaningful imagery or clarity. Overuse can make your writing sound cliché.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a circle of light" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific illuminated area or, as illustrated by Ludwig AI, a shape of light.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a circle of light" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that describes a focused area of illumination, both literally and metaphorically. As Ludwig AI indicates, it conveys a sense of focus, clarity, or protection. It appears most commonly in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts. When using the phrase, consider the specific imagery you want to evoke and avoid overuse in figurative contexts to maintain clarity and impact. Consider alternatives such as "a pool of light" or "a halo of light" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pool of light

Changes the shape and implies a contained area of light.

a halo of light

Suggests a radiant and ethereal quality of light.

a ring of light

Emphasizes the circular shape of the light source.

an orb of light

Implies a three-dimensional, spherical form of light.

a zone of illumination

Focuses on the area being lit, rather than the light source itself.

a sphere of radiance

Highlights the brightness and glowing nature of the light.

a luminous disc

Emphasizes the flat, circular shape of the light.

a beacon of light

Suggests a guiding or signaling purpose of the light.

a radiant halo

Similar to "a halo of light", but places more emphasis on the light's emanation.

a shaft of light

Implies a directed and focused beam of light within a circular boundary.

FAQs

How can I use "a circle of light" in a sentence?

You can use "a circle of light" to describe a literal area illuminated by a light source, as in "The dancer stood in "a circle of light" on the stage". It can also be used metaphorically to represent focus, hope, or safety.

What's the difference between "a circle of light" and "a pool of light"?

"A circle of light" emphasizes the shape of the illuminated area, while "a pool of light" emphasizes the contained and potentially reflective nature of the light.

Is it correct to say "a circle of lights" instead of "a circle of light"?

While "a circle of lights" is grammatically correct, it typically refers to multiple light sources arranged in a circle. "A circle of light" generally refers to a single area of illumination.

What are some metaphorical meanings of "a circle of light"?

Metaphorically, "a circle of light" can represent enlightenment, safety, focus, or a protected space. It often suggests hope or clarity in a dark or confusing situation.