a palpable feeling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a palpable feeling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an emotion or sensation that is so strong it can almost be physically felt. Example: "As the music played, there was a palpable feeling of excitement in the air."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

A palpable feeling of reverence is detected among viewers.

The New York Times

And there was also a palpable feeling that many other technologies were pushing hard against their boundaries.

The New York Times

The apparent pullback created a palpable feeling of relief in South Korea, where many people had been bracing for a showdown.

The New York Times

There is a palpable feeling that old scores are being settled: the death of badgers payback for laws that ended fox hunting with dogs.

The Guardian

Now there's a palpable feeling of relief in taking action, and in knowing that your friends and neighbors are doing the same.

The New York Times

Even before the accident, friends worried if there was anything that could still his increasingly ragged, roaring-boy ways; there was already a palpable feeling of bad portent.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Only August's relationships with his late wife and his younger son, Jimmy, are invested with any palpable feeling.

The New York Times - Books

In lionizing Donatella, the film alternately paints Gianni as a naïf and a bully, and it's only in scenes where the two siblings collide that there's any palpable feeling here.

The New York Times - Arts

There is a very palpable feeling when you're at a fashion show, when you get that garment that looks so amazing on you, and you feel so good in.

The New York Times - Sports

And Andrea Mantegna's close-up portrait of Cardinal Ludovico Trevisan from 1459-60, in which the fierce, square-jawed cleric leans to his right and looks up to his left, projects an especially palpable feeling of a living, contemporary presence.

The New York Times - Arts

The drawings' resolutely simple style -- chalky black outlines and milky flat colors painted in gouache -- have a pleasingly palpable feeling of paper and paint, and bring a deadpan quality to the humor.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure that the context provides enough detail for the feeling to be understood and imagined by the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a palpable feeling" when describing purely abstract concepts that cannot be felt in a tangible way. Instead, opt for phrases like "a strong sense" or "a clear understanding".

Linguistic Context

"A palpable feeling" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a particular emotion or atmosphere that is strongly sensed. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a palpable feeling" is a versatile phrase used to describe emotions or atmospheres so intense they seem almost physically present. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and common occurrence, especially in News & Media. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, it's important to use it judiciously to avoid cliché. Consider alternatives like "a tangible sensation" or "a noticeable emotion" depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Effective use requires ensuring the context provides enough sensory detail for the reader to fully grasp the emotion being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tangible sensation

Emphasizes the physical or concrete nature of the feeling.

a noticeable emotion

Highlights the ease with which the emotion can be observed.

a distinct atmosphere

Focuses on the overall mood or environment created by the feeling.

a pervasive sense

Indicates that the feeling is widespread and affects many people.

a strong impression

Highlights the lasting impact the feeling has on someone.

an overwhelming emotion

Suggests the intensity and power of the feeling.

a clear sentiment

Highlights the clarity and unambiguity of the emotion.

a marked atmosphere

Stresses how pronounced the atmosphere is.

a definite air

Underlines the certainty and unmistakable character of the feeling.

a heavy mood

Focuses on the oppressive or burdensome nature of the feeling.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a palpable feeling" in a sentence?

To effectively use "a palpable feeling", ensure the context allows for a sense of physical or near-physical sensation. For example, "There was "a palpable feeling" of tension in the room as the verdict was read" suggests the tension was so strong it was almost tangible.

What are some alternatives to "a palpable feeling"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a tangible sensation", "a noticeable emotion", or "a distinct atmosphere".

Is "a palpable feeling" too cliché for formal writing?

While "a palpable feeling" is widely used, it is not inherently cliché. However, overuse can diminish its impact. In formal writing, consider whether a more precise or nuanced phrase might be more effective, such as "a pervasive sense" or "a strong impression".

Can "palpable feeling" be used for positive emotions?

Yes, "palpable feeling" can describe both positive and negative emotions. For example, "There was "a palpable feeling" of joy in the air" indicates a positive emotion, while "There was "a palpable feeling" of dread" indicates a negative one.