a free field

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a free field" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to an open area or a situation that allows for freedom of action or expression. Example: "In this discussion, we have a free field to explore all ideas without any restrictions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"Poor Cubans" don't need a "free field hospital".

The New York Times

Teams scramble to find a free field wherever they can for practice.

The New York Times

I will not vote for any candidate who is not committed to dismantling Guantánamo Bay and replacing it with a free field hospital for poor Cubans.

The New York Times

But where are on earth did he come up with "I will not vote for any candidate who is not committed to dismantling Guantánamo Bay and replacing it with a free field hospital for poor Cubans"?

The New York Times

Up to this point, the aim was to develop a free field theory.

SEP

The liquefaction potential is first evaluated using wave-induced liquefaction analysis methods for a free field.

Applied Ocean Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

The frequency characteristics of a floor motion are very different from those of a free-field ground motion.

Nuclear Engineering and Design

Regarding the calculation of the factor of safety (FS) of a soil element in a free-field horizontal ground, the simplified method is usually employed in engineering practice.

Earth, Planets and Space

Experiments were performed underwater in a pressure vessel designed to simulate a free-field environment by maintaining constant hydrostatic pressure throughout the collapse event.

Composite Structures

In this work, a new boundary element method (BEM) based computer code (KIN SP) is presented where the kinematic analysis is preceded by a free-field response analysis.

Journal of Rock Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering

We validated sound stimulation via the headphones in ferrets trained previously in a free-field task to localize stimuli presented from one of two loudspeakers.

Journal of Neuroscience Methods

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a free field" in scientific writing, ensure you clearly define what constitutes 'free' within the context of your study. For example, specify boundary conditions or environmental factors that characterize the field.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a free field" implies a complete absence of influence. Even in controlled environments, subtle factors can impact results. Acknowledge potential limitations in your analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a free field" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or a subject complement. Ludwig provides examples across varied contexts, reinforcing its role in specifying a space or condition characterized by openness or lack of constraint.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a free field" is a versatile noun phrase, commonly used to describe a space or situation characterized by openness, lack of constraint, or absence of external influence. As shown by Ludwig, it finds frequent application in scientific research, engineering analysis, and general discussions. Its meaning is influenced by the context; however, it consistently conveys the idea of minimal restriction or a baseline condition. While adaptable, clarity in its definition remains essential, especially in scientific contexts to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an open area

Focuses on the physical aspect of being an unrestricted space.

an unconstrained environment

Highlights the lack of restrictions or limitations.

a clear space

Emphasizes the absence of obstructions or impediments.

an unrestricted zone

Implies a designated area without boundaries or limitations.

a liberated domain

Suggests freedom from control or influence.

a vacant lot

Refers to an empty piece of land, especially in an urban setting.

an empty playing field

Specifically refers to a sports context where the field is not occupied.

an available territory

Implies that an area is accessible and ready for use.

a blank canvas

Metaphorically suggests a situation with endless possibilities and no prior constraints.

a deregulated sector

Implies the removal of regulations, often used in the context of economics or industry.

FAQs

How can I use "a free field" in a sentence?

You can use "a free field" to describe an open space, as in "The experiment was conducted in "a free field" to minimize sound reflections", or a situation with few constraints, as in "The discussion provided "a free field" for ideas".

What are some alternatives to saying "a free field"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "an open area", "an unrestricted zone", or "a blank canvas".

In acoustics, what does "a free field" mean?

In acoustics, "a free field" refers to a sound field in which there are no reflections. This is often simulated in an anechoic chamber or approximated outdoors, far from any reflecting surfaces.

What does "a free field" mean in geotechnical engineering?

In geotechnical engineering, "a free field" is an area away from structures where the ground motion is unaffected by the presence of buildings or other constructions. It's used as a baseline for analyzing soil behavior during events like earthquakes.