a patch of clear sky

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a patch of clear sky" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small area of the sky that is free of clouds, often in contrast to overcast conditions. Example: "After hours of rain, we finally spotted a patch of clear sky, giving us hope for a beautiful sunset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

By getting rid of the specialized launching pads used by NASA and other space agencies, Stratolaunch officials say they will be able to reduce costs, offer more flexibility and avoid bad weather by simply flying their airborne launcher to a patch of clear sky.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Stratolaunch executives said an airborne launcher would have other advantages, like the ability to simply fly to patches of clear sky to avoid foul weather that could scrub a mission.

The New York Times - Science

The real sky radiation is computed daily, starting from the results of clear sky radiation, in terms of the clear sky index.

Journal of Computational and Applied Mathematics

It is as if he painted a patch of blue sky for the imprisoned".

The New York Times - Books

In his hand was a fragment of my mother's head with a patch of blue sky behind her.

The New Yorker

Financial analysts see a patch of blue sky should car sales recover.

Forbes

A place where a patch of the sky was visible through the leaves, where a little girl let her bare leg dangle too far down.

Huffington Post

When they opened it he saw a patch of sky.

The New Yorker

To the right is a patch of sky with sketchily drawn buildings below.

The Economist

A patch of frozen blue sky was visible through the window.

The New Yorker

They might show a house or a patch of sky or, in a few cases, the photographer and his camera.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a patch of clear sky" to create a sense of hope or relief in situations where the prevailing conditions are cloudy or unfavorable. It's effective in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

Common error

Avoid overusing the phrase "a patch of clear sky" in abstract contexts where the connection to the literal meaning is weak or strained. Ensure that the metaphorical application still evokes a sense of localized clarity or temporary respite.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a patch of clear sky" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific, limited area where the sky is clear of clouds. Ludwig shows examples in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a patch of clear sky" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across a range of contexts, primarily appearing in news, science, and general writing. It describes a limited area of the sky that is free from clouds. Metaphorically, it represents hope or clarity in difficult situations. While versatile, be mindful of the context to ensure the metaphor remains relevant. Related phrases include "a glimpse of clear sky" and "a break in the clouds", offering nuanced ways to express a similar idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a glimpse of clear sky

Focuses on the fleeting nature of the clear area.

a section of clear sky

Emphasizes a defined area of the sky.

a break in the clouds

Highlights the interruption of cloud cover.

an opening in the clouds

Similar to a break, but suggests a more enclosed area.

a window of clear sky

Implies a limited and framed view of the sky.

a pocket of clear sky

Suggests a small, contained area.

a fragment of clear sky

Highlights the small and incomplete nature.

a clear area in the sky

More descriptive and less idiomatic.

a zone of clear sky

Emphasizes a specific region.

a span of clear sky

Indicates a distance or extent of clear sky.

FAQs

How can I use "a patch of clear sky" in a sentence?

You can use "a patch of clear sky" to describe a small area of the sky that is free of clouds. For example, "After the storm, we saw "a patch of clear sky".".

What's the difference between "a patch of clear sky" and "a clear sky"?

"A patch of clear sky" refers to a small portion of the sky that is clear, while "a clear sky" describes the entire sky being free of clouds.

What are some alternatives to "a patch of clear sky"?

Some alternatives include "a glimpse of clear sky", "a break in the clouds", or "an opening in the clouds".

Is "a patch of clear sky" an idiom?

While not a formal idiom, "a patch of clear sky" is often used figuratively to represent a moment of clarity or hope amidst difficulty. Its meaning is generally understood in both literal and metaphorical contexts.