bars of the cell

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bars of the cell" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to biology, particularly when discussing the structure of cells or cellular components. Example: "The bars of the cell provide structural support and help maintain its shape."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

A long metal sheet was welded to the bars of the cell, perforated with small holes for air and light.

Harvard University

The bars of the cell door cast shadows along the stone floor, and a cross was faintly scratched in the wall.

The Guardian

The black shadows of an unseen guard and of the bars of the cell partition are projected on the wall behind their backs.

The New York Times - Arts

The iron bars of the cell window looked out over the cliffs; the sea roared all night as it coursed through the rocks, like blood in the arteries and thoughts in the spirals of the brain.

The New Yorker

He described one position he was forced to maintain in which his hands and feet were pushed through the metal bars of the cell door and then tied together.

The Guardian

When he needed it, he told the court, he would stand to attention by the front bars of the cell and shout out to the observation guards: "Lance Corporal Detainee Manning requests toilet paper!" As Manning walked around the diminutive virtual space of the cell, the thought occurred that in this regard at least he was lucky to be so small.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Human shit clung like caked mud to the razor wire outside the bars of the cells, and more shit lay in piles everywhere.

The New Yorker

The prisoners then tried to write their names in blood, but it, too, ran, so the men scratched rust off the bars of the cells and mixed it with the tailor's blood to fortify it.

The New Yorker

Taunts and sniggering laughter echo in the smoky air, and the men ratchet up the tension with raucous music made by running spoons, cups and makeshift weapons against the bars of the cells.

The New York Times

At the single cell level, with high contrast stimuli, matched adaptation (constant high contrast) resulted in a significant decrease in response amplitude in 30.4% (Fig. 5, top histogram, black bars) of the cells and no significant change in 65.2% of the cells, compared to unmatched adaptation.

Plosone

Dundun started climbing on the bars of the nearest cell.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "bars of the cell" in creative writing, consider the emotional and psychological impact of confinement on the character. Show, don't just tell, how the bars affect their perception and actions.

Common error

Avoid using "bars of the cell" as a generic metaphor for any kind of restriction. Overusing this image dilutes its power and specificity. Use more fitting metaphorical language for general limitations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bars of the cell" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Ludwig AI shows that it typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a specific physical feature of a prison or detention facility.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "bars of the cell" is a noun phrase primarily used to depict confinement and restriction. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct and functions as a noun phrase, often evoking images of imprisonment. Its usage is neutral, appearing in various contexts like news, academia, and creative writing. While metaphorically applicable, overuse should be avoided to maintain its impactful symbolism. Key sources include The New York Times and The Guardian, highlighting its relevance in current events and literature.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cell bars

A shortened version focusing on the physical restraint.

prison cell bars

Adds context by explicitly stating it's a prison cell.

grating of the cell

Replaces "bars" with "grating", emphasizing the structure.

cell's metal bars

Specifies the material of the bars, adding detail.

iron bars of the cell

Emphasizes the strength and historical context by specifying "iron".

confines of the cell

Shifts focus to the limitations imposed by the cell, rather than the physical structure of the bars.

prison enclosure

Describes the enclosure as a whole.

jail cell walls

Focuses on the cell's walls, implying enclosure.

inside the cell

Simple spatial description.

within cell walls

Refers to area constrained by cell.

FAQs

How can I use "bars of the cell" in a sentence?

The phrase "bars of the cell" typically refers to the physical barriers of a prison cell. Example: "He stared blankly through the "bars of the cell", his hope dwindling with each passing day."

What's a more descriptive alternative to "bars of the cell"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "iron grating", "cell door", or "prison bars" to provide more specific imagery.

Is it appropriate to use "bars of the cell" metaphorically?

Yes, but sparingly. Metaphorically, "bars of the cell" can represent any form of confinement or restriction, but it's important to ensure the metaphor is clear and impactful. Overuse can weaken its effect. Consider alternatives like "constraints" or "limitations".

What imagery does "bars of the cell" evoke?

The phrase "bars of the cell" commonly evokes images of imprisonment, restriction, loss of freedom, and despair. It's a powerful symbol of confinement, both physical and metaphorical.