a narrow opening

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrow opening" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small gap or slit in various contexts, such as architecture, nature, or objects. Example: "The cave had a narrow opening that led to a hidden chamber inside."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

I spotted a narrow opening to my left and pressed the gas.

The New York Times

He spotted a narrow opening and sprinted 27 yards for a first down.

The New York Times - Sports

There is only a narrow opening overhead barely wide enough to let the rain down.

The New York Times

The stylus was connected to a diaphragm stretched across a narrow opening at the bottom of a small barrel.

The New Yorker

What the McDonnells' lawyers are trying to do here is get through a narrow opening in Virginia's ethics laws.

The New Yorker

It sounded like too many other venture startups looking to find a narrow opening between Facebook and Foursquare.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

A narrower opening in the pelvis means those organs are sitting on a more stable surface: bone instead of muscle and other soft tissue.

Science Magazine

"That's a very narrow opening," says Bergman. "It's a lot of paperwork for very little volume".

Forbes

It was concluded that placing the openings near the upper corners of the deep beam may double the strength, and the use of a rectangular narrow opening, with the long sides in the horizontal save up to 40%% of structural strength of the deep beam.

International Journal of Advanced Structural Engineering

From room II, the back area (III) can only be entered or exited through a relatively narrow opening.

Plosone

The punctae of M. venosa are typical of terebratulids, with a relatively narrow opening at the side of the shell facing the mantle epithelium and a funnel-shaped end without ramifications adjacent to the periostracum.

Genome Biology and Evolution

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical spaces or structures, use "a narrow opening" to effectively convey a limited or restricted access point. This is especially useful in technical descriptions or creative writing where precision is important.

Common error

Avoid using "a narrow opening" when describing opportunities or possibilities, as it implies restriction rather than potential. For example, instead of "a narrow opening for career advancement", consider phrases like "a limited opportunity" or "a small chance".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrow opening" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a physical space or aperture that is limited in width. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

36%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a narrow opening" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe a limited or restricted physical space. According to Ludwig, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Scientific contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various writing styles. While grammatically correct, it's important to consider the connotation of restriction and avoid using it when describing opportunities. Alternatives like "a small aperture" or "a constricted passage" may be more appropriate depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a small aperture

Focuses on the size and shape of the opening.

a constricted passage

Emphasizes the limited space and difficulty of movement.

a tight space

Highlights the limited room available.

a confined entryway

Suggests a limited entrance to a space.

a slim gap

Focuses on the thinness of the opening.

a slit-like space

Implies an opening resembling a slit.

a limited access point

Emphasizes the restricted nature of entry.

a pinched space

Suggests a space that has been squeezed or narrowed.

a close-fitting aperture

Highlights the precise fit of the opening.

a meager space

Emphasizes the small quantity of space available.

FAQs

How can I use "a narrow opening" in a sentence?

"A narrow opening" is typically used to describe a small gap or entrance. For example, "The climbers squeezed through "a narrow opening" in the rock face".

What are some alternatives to "a narrow opening"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a small aperture", "a constricted passage", or "a slim gap".

Is "a narrow opening" formal or informal?

"A narrow opening" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of your writing.

When should I avoid using "a narrow opening"?

Avoid using "a narrow opening" if you intend to convey a sense of opportunity or possibility, as the phrase typically denotes physical restriction. In those cases, consider alternatives like "a limited opportunity" or "a small chance".