a solid wall of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a solid wall of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is impenetrable or overwhelming, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The protesters formed a solid wall of determination, refusing to back down in the face of opposition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Is the image, a solid wall of greenbacks, beautiful?

The New York Times - Arts

Gang members later lay down a solid wall of bricks around each blue-sprayed fence.

Stanford University

On the most popular bridges the guard rails now consist of a solid wall of metal.

The Guardian - Travel

I looked up into a solid wall of New York Times disapproval.

The New York Times

There was a solid wall of stationary people ahead of me.

The Guardian - Sport

Already during Napoleon's time, presenting a solid wall of flesh to the enemy could result in exceedingly heavy casualties.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Particles in a shear flow near a solid wall: effect of nonsphericity on forces and velocities.

Journal of Biomechanics

Donald Trump wants a solid wall, the height of which must be no less than 7ft, erected between him and the other candidates during the debate.

The Guardian

The first, in 2005, made the aboveground structure more blast-resistant by doubling the number of ribs, reducing the amount of glass and placing a solid wall around the base of the structure.

The New York Times

Analysis of the effect of the above-mentioned parameters on the rebounding particle flow characteristics and their interrelationship has provided a better understanding on the behaviour of particulate flow impinging on a solid wall body or series of solid bodies.

Chemical Engineering Science

The New Yorker, May 12 , 1980 P. 31When Secretary of State Cyrus Vance resigned in protest against the mission to rescue the American hostages in Iran, he opened a gap in an almost solid wall of support in this country for resolving the crisis through the use of force.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a solid wall of" to create a vivid image of something being blocked, opposed, or overwhelmed. The strength of the image comes from the concreteness of the word "solid".

Common error

Avoid using "a solid wall of" in purely abstract situations where the imagery of a physical wall doesn't resonate. For instance, instead of saying "a solid wall of data", consider "an overwhelming amount of data" which is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a solid wall of" functions as a modifier, typically describing a noun. It often acts adjectivally to emphasize the imposing, impenetrable, or overwhelming nature of whatever it modifies. Ludwig examples support this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a solid wall of" is a versatile expression used to describe something imposing, impenetrable, or overwhelming. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It functions as a modifier, typically acting adjectivally. Common usage includes describing literal physical barriers, as well as metaphorical obstructions or challenges. While the phrase is frequently found in News & Media, it also appears in academic writing and more informal contexts. When using "a solid wall of", consider its physical imagery and ensure it aligns with the intended meaning; overuse in overly abstract contexts can diminish its impact. Alternatives like "an impenetrable barrier of" or "a formidable front of" may be more suitable in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an impenetrable barrier of

Replaces "solid" with "impenetrable", emphasizing the inability to pass through the barrier.

a formidable front of

Focuses on the imposing nature of the barrier, using "formidable" to convey strength and power.

an unyielding mass of

Emphasizes the inflexibility and density of the barrier, suggesting resistance to change or movement.

a continuous barrage of

Shifts the image to a constant stream or flow, implying relentless pressure or force.

a phalanx of

Evokes a tightly packed and well-organized group, often used in military contexts.

a wall-to-wall arrangement of

Highlights the complete coverage or saturation of something.

a seamless expanse of

Stresses the lack of gaps or breaks in the barrier, suggesting a smooth and uninterrupted surface.

a dense cluster of

Emphasizes the high concentration and proximity of elements within the barrier.

a unified front of

Highlights the solidarity and cohesion of a group acting as a barrier.

a blockade of

Refers specifically to an obstruction preventing access or movement.

FAQs

How can I use "a solid wall of" in a sentence?

You can use "a solid wall of" to describe something that is impenetrable or overwhelming. For example, "The defense formed "a solid wall of" resistance against the invaders."

What can I say instead of "a solid wall of"?

You can use alternatives like "an impenetrable barrier of", "a formidable front of", or "an unyielding mass of" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a solid wall of" metaphorically?

While "a solid wall of" is often used metaphorically, ensure the image of a physical wall aligns with your intended meaning. In some abstract contexts, other phrases might be more effective.

How does "a solid wall of" differ from "a barrier of"?

"A barrier of" is a more general term, while "a solid wall of" emphasizes the density and impenetrability of the barrier. The phrase ""a solid wall of"" suggests something much more imposing.