a narrow slit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a narrow slit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small, thin opening or gap in various contexts, such as in anatomy, engineering, or visual descriptions. Example: "The light filtered through a narrow slit in the curtains, casting shadows on the floor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

The aperture of the streak camera is a narrow slit.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Lara Favaretto's Momentary Monument – The Stone has a narrow slit cut into the hidden void inside.

The Guardian - Arts

It makes an O-shape, while the left remains a narrow slit.

The Guardian

It exploded directly against a narrow slit though which Worden was at that moment peering.

The New York Times

The dies of interest consist of a distribution channel and a narrow slit.

Chemical Engineering Science

A thin plate (C), in which a narrow slit was cut parallel to the boom, was attached to the end of the boom.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Ignition of a premixed combustible gas at a normal temperature discharged from a long narrow slit of width d0 with velocity u0 into an inert environment at a uniformly high temperature is investigated by the method of large activation energy asymptotics.

Combustion and Flame

We present the results of Monte Carlo simulations of chains confined in a very narrow slit, in the limit of strongly attractive walls.

Chemical Engineering Science

In the, likewise strongly everted telencephalon of the teleost Mormyrus, the sulcus externus is reduced to a deep, narrow slit (Fig.  4h).

Brain Structure and Function

Male relatives must dig a deep grave and place the body sideways in an even deeper, narrow slit at the bottom.

The Guardian

Users are encouraged to wedge a smartphone into the narrow slit that borders the seat cushion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a narrow slit", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately conveys the size and shape of the opening you are describing. For visual descriptions, use adjectives to further clarify the slit's appearance (e.g., "a jagged narrow slit").

Common error

Avoid using redundant adjectives that reiterate the narrowness of the slit. For example, "a very narrow narrow slit" is repetitive. Choose adjectives that provide additional descriptive detail, such as "a sharp narrow slit" or "a barely visible narrow slit".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrow slit" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As demonstrated in Ludwig, it describes a physical feature, specifically a small, thin opening.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a narrow slit" is a common noun phrase used to describe a small, thin opening across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Its frequency is considered common, with usage primarily found in News & Media and Science sources. The phrase serves a descriptive purpose and maintains a neutral to formal register. When using "a narrow slit", ensure accuracy in portraying the opening's dimensions and consider context-appropriate adjectives to enhance clarity. Related phrases include "a thin aperture" and "a slim gap", offering alternative ways to convey similar meanings. Common errors involve redundant adjective use. Therefore, understand the different use cases to choose accurately between this and other phrases, and to generate clear sentences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thin aperture

Focuses on the opening's function in controlling light or fluid passage.

a fine crack

Emphasizes the smallness and potentially unintended nature of the opening.

a slim gap

Highlights the limited space between two surfaces.

a hairline fissure

Suggests an extremely thin and delicate split or crack.

a tight crevice

Implies a narrow and often hidden opening in a solid material.

a restricted opening

Stresses the limited access or passage through the space.

a confined space

Emphasizes the limited area within the opening.

a small interstice

Refers to a tiny space between things, often in a complex structure.

a minimal aperture

Focuses on the opening being as small as possible for its purpose.

a linear perforation

Describes a hole or series of holes arranged in a line.

FAQs

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

You can use "a narrow slit" to describe small openings in various contexts. For example, "The light filtered through "a narrow slit" in the curtains" or "The scientist observed the sample through "a narrow slit" in the apparatus".

What is a synonym for "a narrow slit"?

Synonyms include "a thin aperture", "a slim gap", or "a fine crack", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a narrow slit" instead of "a wide opening"?

"A narrow slit" is appropriate when describing a very small and thin opening, while "a wide opening" refers to a larger, more expansive space. The choice depends on the actual dimensions and function of the opening being described.

What is the difference between "a narrow slit" and "a small hole"?

While both describe openings, "a narrow slit" implies a long, thin opening, whereas "a small hole" suggests a more circular or irregularly shaped opening. The distinction lies in the shape and proportions of the opening.