a notable absence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a notable absence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone or something that is conspicuously missing or not present in a particular context. Example: "During the meeting, there was a notable absence of key stakeholders, which raised concerns about the decision-making process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

There was a notable absence on the American League squad.

The New York Times - Sports

7.59am GMT Harriet Sherwood says there is a notable absence of foreign bigwigs at the funeral.

The Guardian

George E. Pataki, the most recent Republican governor of New York, was a notable absence.

The New York Times

The Time Traveler's Wife is a notable absence from The Time Traveler's Almanac.

The Guardian - Books

At present, there is a notable absence of analysis that draws on historical perspectives.

Nature

Tailoring is back in the menswear conversation after a notable absence, albeit in a remixed way.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There is a notable absence of "yahoos!" and "yeehas!" in the air.

The New York Times - Arts

In the parade of Canadian icons, he was a notable absence.

The New York Times - Sports

Each is elaborately decorated but with a notable absence of deities and human figures.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

There is a notable absence of storm reports in that region from both derecho events.

The Washington Post

Despite the high prevalence of clinical benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) among older men, there remains a notable absence of studies focused on BPH prevention.

European Urology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a notable absence" to draw attention to something important that is missing, creating emphasis and prompting consideration of the omission's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a notable absence" when the absence is already inherently obvious from the context. Be mindful not to state the obvious, ensure it adds value and isn't just filler.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a notable absence" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It serves to highlight the absence of something significant, drawing attention to its importance. As noted by Ludwig AI, it indicates something conspicuously missing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

7%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a notable absence" is a phrase used to emphasize the significant lack of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. The phrase is most frequently encountered in news and media, science, and encyclopedic sources. When writing, use "a notable absence" to draw attention to important omissions, but avoid redundancy by ensuring the absence isn't already obvious. Consider alternative phrases like "conspicuous lack" for different shades of meaning. By understanding its function and usage, you can effectively incorporate "a notable absence" into your writing to create emphasis and prompt reflection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conspicuous lack

Emphasizes the obvious and easily noticeable nature of the absence.

marked deficiency

Highlights the inadequacy or shortage of something in a clear manner.

noticeable omission

Focuses on something that has been left out or excluded and is readily apparent.

striking unavailability

Underscores the impressiveness or unexpected nature of something not being available.

palpable void

Suggests the absence is so strong it can almost be felt.

evident nonexistence

States clearly that something does not exist or is not present.

visible scarcity

Points out that the lack of something is easily seen or observed.

obvious want

Highlights a clear and easily recognized need or absence.

clear-cut inadequacy

Presents the absence as a distinct and definitive lack of what is required.

significant shortage

Indicates that the absence involves a substantial and important lack.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a notable absence" in a sentence?

Employ "a notable absence" to emphasize something important that is missing or lacking, drawing attention to its significance in the given context. For example, "There was "a notable absence" of female speakers at the conference" highlights the underrepresentation of women.

What are some alternatives to using "a notable absence"?

You can use alternatives such as "conspicuous lack", "marked deficiency", or "noticeable omission" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. These alternatives offer different ways to emphasize the missing element.

Is it always appropriate to use "a notable absence" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the tone and formality of your writing. In highly formal contexts, a more direct or specific phrase might be preferable. However, "a notable absence" is suitable for most professional and academic writing.

What distinguishes "a notable absence" from a simple "absence"?

The word "notable" emphasizes that the absence is significant and worthy of attention. Using "a notable absence" suggests that the missing element has a particular importance or impact, making its absence more conspicuous than a mere "absence".