around a heel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "around a heel" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to footwear, fashion, or even metaphorically to describe a situation involving a person who is difficult or untrustworthy. Example: "The shoe design features a unique curve around a heel that adds both style and comfort."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It may be around an elbow, a heel, an armpit, a calf muscle, the nape of a neck.

The Guardian - Arts

Many skate shoes have a heel collar for added stability around the heel and to prevent a shoe from slipping off during skateboarding.

WikiHow

Its basically passing the ball to yourself around the defender!! Heel to Heel.

WikiHow

Then when I got finished with a few more numbers I looked around and the heel wasnt there but the mouse was.

The New Yorker

Of course, the sexualisation of young girls is a real problem, but the mini adults that we see drowning in make-up as they stagger around in their heels at a beauty pageant are a far cry from a child on the beach in her swimming gear, whether that consists of a bikini or a Victorian bathing suit complete with pantaloons.

The Guardian - Opinion

I'm scared of people who never think of turning around, heel-stepping into a run and disappearing at least once or twice in life.

Huffington Post

(For context, said white screenwriter is nepotism-personifying, all-around shit heel Max Landis).

Vice

And that doesn't mean they are dripping in Chanel and running around in stiletto heels with a child on their hip (although sometimes they do).

Huffington Post

There are rubberized pastel and neutral-colored flats (most around $70) and heels of an injection-molded chemical substance that the store calls "vegetan" leather.

The New York Times

A bit of a task when you're struggling to hit 5ft 2ins and tottering around in 4ins heels.

BBC

If you find your foot moving around inside a wedge heel or similar style, place a gel or padded insole inside the shoe to reduce movement.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing footwear or foot anatomy, use "around a heel" to specify the location of features or issues like straps, support structures, or skin conditions.

Common error

Ensure that when using "around a heel", the context makes it clear whether you're referring to the back of a foot or the heel of a shoe to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "around a heel" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb to specify location or spatial relationship. It clarifies the area or region in relation to the heel, whether it refers to footwear, foot anatomy, or general proximity.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "around a heel" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe spatial relationships relative to the heel area. While Ludwig confirms its usability, its current frequency is low, as there are no examples to work with. It is appropriate in neutral contexts and can be used to specify locations in relation to the heel in discussions about anatomy, footwear, or related conditions. For alternatives, consider phrases such as "near the heel" or "in the vicinity of the heel" to achieve similar clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

near the heel

Specifies a location in close proximity to the heel.

surrounding the heel

Emphasizes the encompassing nature of the area around the heel.

in the vicinity of the heel

Indicates a general area close to the heel.

by the heel

Suggests a location right next to the heel.

adjacent to the heel

Highlights the contiguity of the specified area with the heel.

in proximity to the heel

Similar to 'near the heel', but slightly more formal.

at the heel area

Focuses on a specific region associated with the heel.

close to the heel

Simple and direct way of expressing nearness to the heel.

in the region of the heel

Refers to a broader area where the heel is located.

heel area

Simplifies the phrase to just the area of the heel.

FAQs

How can I describe something located close to the heel?

You might use phrases like "near the heel", "in the vicinity of the heel", or "adjacent to the heel" to indicate proximity.

What is a more formal way to say "around a heel"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "in proximity to the heel" or "in the region of the heel".

Is there a simpler alternative to "around a heel"?

Yes, "heel area" can be a more concise option when the context is already clear.

When should I use "around a heel" instead of "on the heel"?

"Around a heel" is appropriate when referring to an area that encircles or is close to the heel, while "on the heel" suggests direct contact or placement on the heel itself.