compared to oblivion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "compared to oblivion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a comparison between something and the state of being forgotten or nonexistent. Example: "The artist's work was vibrant and full of life, especially when compared to oblivion, which seemed to swallow lesser talents whole."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Despite the additional staff, designer Ken Rolston would later state that, compared to Oblivion, Morrowind had a small design team.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

These included the United Kingdom, where the film ranked third and grossed $3.1 million, where Cruise's 2013 film Oblivion had opened with $7.6 million, and Germany, with an income of $2.1 million compared to Oblivions $2.6 million.

Wikipedia

Listen to: Oblivion.

The Guardian - Music

Condemn them to oblivion?

The New York Times - Arts

"I write my own ticket to oblivion".

The New York Times

Every argument leads to oblivion.

The New York Times

He is drawn to oblivion.

The Guardian - Books

It is the first signpost on the road to oblivion".

The New York Times - Books

Pfitzner, on his way to oblivion, produced one great work.

The New Yorker

Gaping, unmarked shafts drop to oblivion.

The Guardian

Oldsmobile is on its way to oblivion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "compared to oblivion" to emphasize the stark contrast between something significant and the state of being completely forgotten or nonexistent. This is particularly effective in discussions about legacy, impact, or historical importance.

Common error

Avoid using "compared to oblivion" when simply contrasting two different things without implying that one is fading away or becoming entirely irrelevant. The phrase carries a strong connotation of ultimate disappearance, so ensure your context warrants this sense of finality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "compared to oblivion" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a comparison. It emphasizes the stark contrast between a subject and the state of being completely forgotten or nonexistent. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "compared to oblivion" is a grammatically correct and usable prepositional phrase that introduces a comparison highlighting the stark contrast between something and a state of complete forgetfulness or non-existence. According to Ludwig, its primary function is to emphasize the significance or impact of a subject. While relatively rare in occurrence, it's most frequently found in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. When using the phrase, ensure the context warrants the strong connotation of ultimate disappearance. Consider alternatives such as "in comparison with nothingness" or "relative to utter insignificance" for nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compared with the void

Replaces "oblivion" with "the void", evoking a sense of emptiness and nothingness.

in comparison with nothingness

Replaces "oblivion" with a more literal term for non-existence, emphasizing the absolute lack of something to compare against.

juxtaposed with non-existence

Uses "non-existence" for a philosophical nuance, highlighting the contrast between something and a state of not being.

relative to utter insignificance

Highlights the difference in importance or impact compared to something completely insignificant.

in comparison to the abyss

Uses a more evocative term, "the abyss", implying a vast and immeasurable nothingness.

as opposed to being forgotten

Directly contrasts something with the state of being forgotten, focusing on remembrance versus obscurity.

in light of total disappearance

Focuses on the act of something vanishing completely, providing a stark contrast.

in contrast to complete annihilation

Uses a stronger term, "annihilation", to convey a more drastic sense of something being utterly destroyed or erased.

versus fading into obscurity

Emphasizes a gradual loss of visibility or importance, contrasting with the potential for prominence.

when set against eternal obscurity

Implies a comparison against a state of being unknown or forgotten for all time.

FAQs

How can I use "compared to oblivion" in a sentence?

You can use "compared to oblivion" to highlight a stark contrast between something significant and a state of being forgotten or nonexistent. For example: "The artist's work was vibrant, especially "compared to oblivion", which seemed to swallow lesser talents whole."

What does "compared to oblivion" mean?

"Compared to oblivion" suggests a comparison where one element is juxtaposed against a state of complete nothingness, forgetfulness, or disappearance. It's often used to emphasize the impact or importance of something when contrasted with being completely forgotten.

What are some alternatives to "compared to oblivion"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in comparison with nothingness", "relative to utter insignificance", or "as opposed to being forgotten", each subtly altering the emphasis while maintaining the core idea of contrasting with non-existence.

Is it appropriate to use "compared to oblivion" in formal writing?

Yes, "compared to oblivion" can be used in formal writing, but consider the context. It's most appropriate when discussing topics where the concept of being forgotten or fading into non-existence is relevant. In less serious contexts, consider using a less dramatic alternative.