coal black

USAGE SUMMARY

"coal black" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used as a descriptive term to describe something or someone that is very dark or black in color, like coal. Example: The sky was covered in a blanket of coal black clouds, threatening to unleash a heavy downpour.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Men with coal black hair in coal black leather jackets.

The New York Times - Food

We're talking head-to-toe coal black.

The New York Times

The buildings were coal black and the water at the docks was like treacle.

The Guardian - Arts

He recently painted an 18-foot-long wall in his Manhattan apartment coal black.

The New York Times

"I mean, like, coal black, ink black," Jonas says in the hospital room afterward.

The New Yorker

Acres of coal black are etched by slivers of white light bouncing off instruments and musicians' clothes and skin.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Outside, it was coal-black.

The New Yorker

Coal-black moraines marked the retreat of its calving front.

The New Yorker

These mountainsides of slag, these coal-black hills, hem in the helpless villages.

The New Yorker

Each witch sat in a washtub, and each had a coal-black cat.

The New York Times

The Turkish restaurant's snappy red awning stands out against its coal-black walls.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "coal black" to add emphasis and imagery when describing something that is intensely black. It provides a vivid and specific color reference that enhances descriptive writing.

Common error

While "coal black" is a descriptive and vivid phrase, avoid overusing it in formal or technical writing. In such contexts, consider using more neutral terms like "black" or "dark" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

"Coal black" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective, modifying nouns to specify a particular shade of black. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. The phrase is used to vividly portray the color, as seen in examples like "coal black hair" or "coal black elegance".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Wiki

8%

Science

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "coal black" is a descriptive adjective phrase used to vividly depict something as intensely black, like the color of coal. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly within descriptive contexts, particularly within News & Media. Although suitable for use in a range of contexts, from casual to formal, avoid overuse in technical writing in favor of plain "black". Alternatives include "jet black" and "pitch black". By understanding its connotations and appropriate contexts, you can effectively use "coal black" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

jet black

Indicates a deep, glossy black, similar to the color of jet.

pitch black

Emphasizes the intensity of the black, comparing it to the darkness of pitch.

ebony

Refers to a rich, dark black, like that of ebony wood.

inky black

Suggests a black as dark as ink.

soot black

Compares the color to the dull black of soot.

raven black

Compares the color to the black plumage of a raven.

midnight black

Indicates a black as dark as midnight.

charcoal black

Similar to the color of charcoal, implying a slightly softer black.

obsidian

Like the volcanic glass obsidian, a deep and glossy black.

deep black

Simply emphasizes the depth and richness of the black color.

FAQs

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

You can use "coal black" to describe the color of objects or features, such as "Her hair was a cascade of "coal black" curls" or "The night sky was "coal black", offering no glimpse of the moon".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "coal black"?

Alternatives include "jet black", "pitch black", or "ebony". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

While "coal black" is acceptable in many contexts, it is best suited for descriptive or creative writing. In more formal or technical writing, consider using simply "black" or more precise color descriptions as alternatives.

What connotations does the term "coal black" carry?

"Coal black" typically evokes images of deep darkness, intensity, and sometimes even a sense of foreboding or mystery, due to its association with the color of coal.