as black as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as black as" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in similes to compare the color black to something else, often to emphasize darkness or intensity. Example: "The night sky was as black as coal, making the stars stand out even more."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Books

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's as black as charcoal".

The Guardian

Inside, it's as black as the heart of darkness.

The New York Times

The policemen were as black as their suits.

The New Yorker

I wonder if he is as black as she is.

The New Yorker

However Pepe's antics were as black as charcoal.

The Guardian - Sport

It's as black as night in there, he remarked.

The New York Times - Books

"The future is as black as coal," he admitted.

The Guardian

Soviet pots were as black as Nazi kettles.

The New York Times - Books

"My father is as black as the night," says Yankee.

The Guardian - Music

The moor was as black as the hide of an Angus bull.

The New Yorker

I take it as black as my heart and bitter as my soul.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as black as" to vividly describe the intensity of darkness or negativity, choosing a comparison that resonates with your audience (e.g., "as black as coal" for a gritty feel, "as black as night" for mystery).

Common error

Avoid using "as black as" in overly familiar or predictable comparisons. Opt for fresh, original imagery to make your writing more impactful. Instead of saying "as black as night", try "as black as a raven's wing at midnight" for more detail.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as black as" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It forms the basis of similes, directly comparing the color black to another object or concept to emphasize the intensity or quality of the blackness. Ludwig's examples highlight its versatility in describing various subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Lifestyle

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Books

8%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as black as" is a versatile simile used to vividly describe darkness, negativity, or intensity by comparing black to another object or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across different contexts. Common comparisons include "as black as coal", "as black as night", and "as black as ink", each evoking a unique sensory image. While appropriate in both formal and informal writing, it's important to avoid overuse and choose comparisons that resonate with your audience and the intended tone. Related phrases like ""as dark as"" or ""pitch black"" can serve as effective alternatives to create the specific nuance you are after.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as dark as

Replaces "black" with a more general term for darkness.

coal black

Specifies blackness comparable to coal.

pitch black

A more concise way to describe something completely black.

as inky as

Compares blackness to ink.

jet black

Emphasizes a deep, glossy black color.

ebony black

Evokes a rich, dark black like the wood ebony.

as gloomy as

Shifts the focus to a sense of bleakness or despair.

as bleak as

Similar to 'gloomy', emphasizing desolation.

as dusky as

Suggests a muted or shaded black.

darkened

A simple adjective to indicate the state of being black.

FAQs

How can I use "as black as" in a sentence?

You can use "as black as" to create similes that vividly describe the color black by comparing it to something else. For example, "The coffee was "as black as night"" or "His mood was "as black as coal" after the bad news".

What are some alternatives to "as black as"?

Alternatives include "as dark as", "pitch black", or using a specific shade like "jet black", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "as black as" in formal writing?

Yes, "as black as" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when used to create a vivid image. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.

Which is more descriptive, "as black as coal" or "as black as night"?

Both ""as black as coal"" and ""as black as night"" are descriptive, but they evoke different images. Coal suggests a solid, earthy black, while night implies a vast, encompassing darkness. The better choice depends on the specific imagery you want to create.