a closed gate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a closed gate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gate that is not open, often implying restriction or barrier. Example: "The park was inaccessible due to a closed gate, preventing visitors from entering."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

All that remains is a closed gate.

The New York Times

"Hurry, hurry," Gonzalez whispered, leading the group through an archway and down a corridor that ended at a closed gate.

The New York Times - Magazine

You have to stick with them, past the surprisingly dry and steely first taste that can sometimes seem like a closed gate.

The New York Times - Food

According to a report from the Summit County, Utah, sheriff's department, Davis was on a four-wheel vehicle that slammed into a closed gate at the end of a driveway.

The New York Times

After the estate was subdivided in the late 1920's, a booklet about the new community, just off the shore of Mamaroneck, showed a closed gate with the message: "Peace and security.

The New York Times

Looking up through a closed gate at the dilapidated windows of Picasso's attic, it is strange to think that in this quiet corner of the city he created the most powerful political artwork of modern times.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Figure 4 Cross sections of the electron concentration distribution at a closed-gate condition and cross-sectional potential profiles.

Nanoscale Research Letters

(a) Ne distributions in all devices at a closed-gate condition of Vg = −5 V and Vds = 80 V.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Figure 3b shows the subthreshold drain leakage versus drain voltage at a closed-gate condition below a threshold bias of Vg = −5 V for all devices.

Nanoscale Research Letters

(b) Subthreshold drain leakage current as a function of drain bias for all devices under a closed-gate condition of Vg = −5 V. Figure 4a plots cross sections of the electron concentration distribution at a closed-gate condition of Vg = −5 V and Vds = 80 V for all devices.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The functionality of EBL is further examined by inspecting the cross-sectional potential profiles for all devices under a closed-gate condition of Vg = −5 V with Vds increasing from Vds = 20 V to Vds = 60 V in 20-V interval (Figure 4b).

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a closed gate" in a metaphorical sense, ensure the context clearly establishes the intended barrier or restriction. For example, "His lack of experience presented a closed gate to career advancement."

Common error

Avoid using "a closed gate" when describing a temporary or easily overcome obstacle. The phrase implies a more significant and potentially insurmountable barrier.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a closed gate" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a physical or metaphorical barrier that prevents access or progress. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a closed gate" functions primarily as a noun phrase, denoting a physical or metaphorical barrier. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used, fitting seamlessly in both formal and informal contexts. The phrase commonly appears in news, media, and scientific sources. When employing the phrase, ensure the context clearly signals the intended barrier or restriction. Alternatives like "a barred entrance" or "an obstructed passage" can provide nuanced variations of meaning. Avoid mistaking a temporary setback for "a closed gate", which implies a more substantial impediment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a barred entrance

Focuses on the physical obstruction preventing entry.

an obstructed passage

Highlights the blockage or impediment to movement.

an inaccessible entry

Emphasizes the inability to gain access.

a blocked gateway

Similar to a closed gate but can refer to digital spaces.

a sealed barrier

Implies a more permanent or fortified closure.

an unpassable threshold

Suggests a symbolic or literal point of no entry.

a restricted access point

Formal and emphasizes limited or prohibited entry.

a forbidden portal

More dramatic, suggesting danger or prohibition.

an excluded route

Highlights the denial of a specific pathway or course.

a secured entryway

Emphasizes security measures preventing unauthorized access.

FAQs

How can I use "a closed gate" in a sentence?

You can use "a closed gate" to describe a physical barrier, such as "We found "a closed gate" blocking the path", or metaphorically, as in "His lack of qualifications presented "a closed gate" to employment opportunities".

What's a less literal alternative to "a closed gate"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "an obstacle", "a barrier", or "a hindrance" to convey the idea of something preventing progress.

Is it correct to say "the gate was closed" instead of "a closed gate"?

Yes, "the gate was closed" is grammatically correct. However, "a closed gate" often functions as a noun phrase, while "the gate was closed" is a complete sentence. The choice depends on the intended grammatical structure and emphasis.

How does the meaning of "a closed gate" differ from "a locked gate"?

While both imply obstruction, "a locked gate" specifically indicates that the gate is secured with a lock, preventing unauthorized access. "A closed gate" simply means the gate is not open, without necessarily implying it is locked.