as the sun sets

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as the sun sets" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or events occurring simultaneously with the setting of the sun, often evoking imagery or a specific time of day. Example: "The children played in the park as the sun sets, casting long shadows on the grass."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And just as the sun sets, too!

The New York Times

The shadows as the sun sets.

The New Yorker

Driving on Highway 1 as the sun sets.

Stanford University

As the sun sets, we hang our hammocks.

The New York Times - Magazine

But as the sun sets, the glass becomes mirrored.

The New York Times - Style

As the sun sets on Acton, it rises in Barking.

Independent

As the sun sets, Latitude begins to warm up.

Independent

The wind continues at 31 m.p.h. as the sun sets.

The New York Times

12The sky turns azure as the sun sets above the garden.

Harvard University

Nocturnal birds, like owls and nighthawks, wake up as the sun sets and hunt at night.

Cornell University

As the sun sets, hard-working trucks get ready for bed.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as the sun sets" to create a sense of time and place in your writing, often conveying a feeling of closure, reflection, or transition. This phrase is best suited for descriptive or narrative contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "as the sun sets" in technical or scientific writing where precise timing is crucial. Opt for specific times or astronomical terms like "at sunset" or "civil twilight" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as the sun sets" functions as a temporal adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by specifying when an action occurs. Ludwig AI shows it often introduces a scene, sets a mood, or indicates the timing of events, such as in the example "As the sun sets, I break my fast with some fruit."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

12%

Science

9%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as the sun sets" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the time an action is taking place. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase functions as a temporal adverbial, offering a descriptive and often evocative context. Its usage is grammatically sound and frequently found in various sources, mainly from News & Media and Academia. While broadly applicable, it's best to avoid using "as the sun sets" in contexts requiring high precision. Alternatives like "at sunset" or specific times might be more suitable in those instances. It is essential to consider your audience, as well as the purpose of your writing, to create clear, effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at sunset

This is a shorter, more direct way of saying the same thing.

when the sun goes down

This alternative uses more common, less formal language.

during sundown

This option offers a simple and direct synonym, focusing on the time of day.

as evening arrives

This phrase shifts the focus from the sun to the broader concept of evening.

when twilight begins

This alternative emphasizes the transition to twilight.

as dusk approaches

This version highlights the approaching darkness and fading light.

at close of day

This phrase is more poetic and literary.

in the evening glow

This alternative puts stress on the light of sunset, not on the sunset event itself.

as night falls

This emphasizes the end of the day and the beginning of night.

when day transitions to night

This is a more descriptive and less common way of saying "as the sun sets".

FAQs

How can I use "as the sun sets" in a sentence?

You can use "as the sun sets" to describe events happening during the transition from day to night. For example, "The children played on the beach "as the sun sets", painting the sky with vibrant colors."

What is a more formal alternative to "as the sun sets"?

A more formal alternative could be "at sunset" or "during the twilight hours". These phrases are less descriptive but maintain a sense of formality suitable for professional contexts.

Is there a difference between "as the sun sets" and "at sunset"?

"As the sun sets" describes an action happening during the process of the sun going down, while "at sunset" refers to the specific moment the sun dips below the horizon. The former has a more extended sense of time.

What are some poetic alternatives to "as the sun sets"?

Poetic alternatives include phrases like "when twilight begins", "as dusk approaches", or "at close of day". These options evoke a stronger sense of imagery and emotion.