an edifice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an edifice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a large, imposing building or structure, often in a formal or literary context. Example: "The ancient city was known for its grand architecture, with an edifice that towered over the skyline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is an edifice waiting to implode.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is, at this stage, quite an edifice.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's the house of somebody with an edifice complex.

The New York Times

As with Livingstone, power seized him in the grip of an edifice complex.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is an edifice of speculation and conjecture — like every "Cleopatra" ever written.

The New Yorker

In light of this analysis, the Paulsons clearly have an edifice complex.

The Guardian - Opinion

And the difference between an edifice and a ruin may be hard to detect.

The New Yorker

Sebald understands that a life is an edifice, which we build partly to hide its foundations.

The New Yorker

Harry's current life, it turns out, is an edifice of willed forgetting and strenuous denial.

The New York Times

Whether this adds up to a cultural renaissance or an edifice contest remains unclear.

The New York Times - Arts

Switch to the Palace of Westminster and you're challenged by an edifice that says: "Stand back.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an edifice" when you want to convey the idea of a large, imposing structure or a complex, well-developed system. The term carries a sense of permanence and significance.

Common error

Avoid using "an edifice" in casual conversation or informal writing. The term is formal and can sound pretentious if used inappropriately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an edifice" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a building or structure, often implying grandeur or complexity. As Ludwig AI points out, its usage helps describe substantial entities in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an edifice" is a grammatically correct and relatively formal way to refer to a large, imposing building or a complex system. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, with significant presence in scientific and formal business writing. When considering alternatives, options like "a structure" or "a building" may be more appropriate in informal settings. Remember to use "an edifice" when you wish to emphasize the grandeur and permanence of the entity you are describing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a structure

This alternative simplifies the original phrase, focusing on the physical aspect of a building or construction without the connotation of grandeur or complexity.

a building

Similar to "a structure", this term denotes a physical construction, often used in a more general context without implying impressiveness.

a monument

This term emphasizes the commemorative aspect of a structure, built to honor a person or event.

a framework

This refers to the underlying structure or system that supports something, either physical or conceptual.

a construct

This highlights the deliberate and artificial nature of the building, system, or idea.

a complex

This suggests a system composed of many different and connected parts, often intricate and elaborate.

a system

This denotes an organized set of principles or procedures, often abstract but foundational.

a creation

This term emphasizes the aspect of having created something new and innovative.

an institution

This refers to an established organization or corporation, often with a specific purpose or mission.

an establishment

This term implies that something has already been set up or founded.

FAQs

How can I use "an edifice" in a sentence?

"An edifice" typically refers to a large or imposing building. For example, "The cathedral was an impressive edifice that dominated the skyline."

What are some synonyms for "an edifice"?

Alternatives include "a structure", "a building", or "a monument", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "an edifice" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "an edifice" is relatively formal. It may sound out of place in informal settings; consider using simpler terms like "building" or "structure" instead.

What is the difference between "an edifice" and "a building"?

"An edifice" implies a grand or imposing structure, often of historical or cultural significance, whereas "a building" is a more general term for any enclosed structure with walls and a roof.