a narrow space

USAGE SUMMARY

'a narrow space' is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a space that is at least somewhat confined. For example, "The bookshelf was crammed into a narrow space between the two walls."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There's a narrow space.

The New York Times

The wind, gaining speed, circulated around Grimmette through a narrow space.

The New York Times - Sports

He spied a narrow space between a couple of cars, & squeezed his station wagon into it.

The New Yorker

It is not a narrow space, but the extreme length creates the quality of a vortex.

The New York Times - Style

Enter through the swinging doors to a narrow space lighted by a single overhead bulb.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Geffen may have a narrow space in which to maneuver the future fortunes of DreamWorks.

The New York Times

We are invited to inch sideways down a narrow space between walls.

The New York Times - Arts

El Paso lies in a narrow space between rugged mountains and the Rio Grande.

The Guardian

Tritiated water flows in a narrow space surrounded by two X-ray detectors.

Fusion Engineering and Design

In this study, we proposed a mass transfer model among droplets in a narrow space.

Chemical Engineering Science

His perch is a narrow space separated from the rest of the store by counter-to-ceiling plexiglass.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "a narrow space" metaphorically to represent limited opportunities or constraints, like "The budget left a narrow space for innovation."

Common error

Avoid using "a narrow space" when describing abstract concepts that lack physical dimension; use terms like "limited scope" or "restricted range" instead. For example, do not say "a narrow space for creativity" but rather "a limited scope for creativity".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a narrow space" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across diverse contexts, serving to describe physical areas or figurative limitations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a narrow space" is a versatile and commonly used noun phrase for describing physical or metaphorical limitations. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct, and it finds frequent application across diverse fields such as news, science, and everyday conversation. When using "a narrow space", it's vital to ensure that the context aligns with describing something physically or figuratively constrained. Related phrases such as ""a confined area"" or ""a tight spot"" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Remember to avoid applying it to abstract concepts lacking physical dimensions and instead use "limited scope" or similar terms. By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate "a narrow space" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a confined area

Replaces "space" with "area", emphasizing the restriction and enclosure of the space.

a constricted space

Uses a more formal and technical term to describe the limited nature of the space.

a limited area

Emphasizes the restriction in size or scope.

a tight spot

Uses a more informal and figurative term to indicate a difficult or cramped situation.

a restricted zone

Highlights the limited access or usability of the space.

a tight squeeze

Implies the necessity of compressing or forcing something into the space.

a cramped location

Focuses on the uncomfortable and small nature of the space.

a close-fitting enclosure

Highlights the snug and form-fitting nature of the space.

a small gap

Refers to a small opening or interval, rather than a larger space.

a slim margin

Shifts the context to a narrow difference or allowance.

FAQs

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

You can use "a narrow space" to describe a physical area with limited width, such as "The alley was a narrow space between two buildings" or to metaphorically describe limited options such as, "There's "a narrow space to maneuver" in this situation".

What are some synonyms for "a narrow space"?

Some synonyms for "a narrow space" include "a confined area", "a cramped location", or "a tight spot", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a narrow space" in formal writing?

Yes, "a narrow space" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when describing physical dimensions or constraints. It is a neutral and descriptive term.

What's the difference between "a small space" and "a narrow space"?

"A small space" indicates limited area in general, while "a narrow space" specifically refers to a space that is long and thin with limited width. For example, you might describe a closet as a small space, but a hallway as "a narrow space".