back corridors

USAGE SUMMARY

"back corridors" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to a usually hidden or out-of-the-way paths. For example, "The prince snuck out of the castle using the back corridors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Ferguson may have worked football's back corridors to establish the strength of Guardiola's resolve to join Manchester City.

Independent

Being well, if humbly, dressed prevents him from being stopped by security while sneaking around the back corridors of casinos.

The New Yorker

Virtually every president or monarch from around the globe made some reference to the financial upheaval, and the looming cloud was also the buzz of the back corridors.

The New York Times

Late on Tuesday night somewhere in the back corridors of the St Jakob-Park stadium a crowd of us stood around Fabio Capello as he began to analyse the best performance from his England team this calendar year.

Independent

Nestled in the back corridors of the General Services Administration headquarters in Foggy Bottom, near the State Department, behind a metal door wired with burglar alarms, Steven Garfinkel keeps tabs on millions of Government secrets.

The New York Times

Mr. Cilia, the mall's manager, said MerchantWired did virtually all its wiring behind the scenes, thanks to an intricate set of back corridors, service areas and loading docks that link the mall's tenants.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Staff and patrons evacuated through a back corridor, he said.

The Guardian

I heard later from lucky people who had escaped from the back corridor that there'd been a thick, acrid black smoke.

Independent

Out of a Circle The next day, snow was falling outside as some Otters gathered in a back corridor of the arena to play sewer ball before a game against the Niagara IceDogs.

The New York Times - Sports

The surviving son of Ms. Hayes testified before the commission that it was not only appropriate "but the correction of an injustice to have hidden them in a back corridor," Ms. Thornhill said.

The New York Times - Arts

Hanging on a wall inside Larry Johnson's Westchester County home, there is a photograph of the Knicks' broad-shouldered forward with his three children, all standing in a back corridor of Madison Square Garden.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "back corridors" to describe routes or areas within buildings that are not intended for public access or are less frequently used. This can add a sense of secrecy or exclusivity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "back corridors" when you simply mean a regular corridor. The phrase implies something hidden, less accessible, or perhaps used for clandestine activities. Using it incorrectly can confuse your reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "back corridors" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples showcase its descriptive capability in illustrating clandestine or less public areas.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "back corridors" functions as a noun phrase referring to hidden or less accessible pathways, often implying secrecy or limited access. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media contexts. Its purpose is to evoke a sense of intrigue or clandestine activity. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, context dictates formality. Understanding the connotations of "back corridors" can help writers avoid misinterpretations and use it effectively to enhance their narratives. Ludwig’s examples highlight that avoiding overuse may increase the impact of this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hidden passages

Focuses on the concealed aspect, rather than the location within a building.

secret hallways

Emphasizes the secretive nature and internal location.

private passageways

Highlights the exclusive access rather than the physical location.

service areas

Refers to the functional, often unseen parts of a building.

rear access routes

Focuses on the entry and exit aspects from the back.

unseen pathways

Highlights the hidden and unnoticeable aspect of the route.

inner sanctums

Emphasizes a secluded and private space.

backstage areas

Specific to performance venues, referring to areas not seen by the audience.

restricted zones

Focuses on limited access and regulatory constraints.

confidential channels

Emphasizes privacy and exclusivity, rather than physical location.

FAQs

How can I use "back corridors" in a sentence?

"Back corridors" typically refers to hidden or less accessible pathways within a building. For instance, "The spy used the back corridors to avoid detection".

What is a synonym for "back corridors"?

Alternatives include "hidden passages", "secret hallways", or "private passageways". All of which emphasize the secluded nature of the route.

Is it appropriate to use "back corridors" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase "back corridors" can be used in formal writing, especially when describing clandestine or secretive movements. However, ensure the context warrants such imagery.

What is the difference between "back corridors" and "service areas"?

"Back corridors" implies secrecy or limited access, whereas "service areas" refer to the functional, often unseen parts of a building. The former suggests intrigue, while the latter suggests utility.