created a vacuum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "created a vacuum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something has been removed or eliminated, leading to a lack of something that was previously present. Example: "The sudden departure of the team leader created a vacuum in the management structure that needed to be filled quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The Puerto Ricans created a vacuum here.

The New York Times

But whatever the reason, his retreat has created a vacuum.

The Economist

The lack of information on Earnhardt's condition created a vacuum.

The New York Times - Sports

After the cardinal resigned, church secrecy created a vacuum.

The Guardian

That created a vacuum for Zhejiang's risk-taking traders to thrive in.

The Economist

Although not quite anarchy, the protests have created a vacuum of law and order.

The New York Times

The lack of strong leadership, he added, has created a vacuum.

The New York Times

Our absurd political and media squabbles have created a vacuum of gravitas.

The New York Times

The government's absence of leadership created a vacuum that charities and others have struggled to fill.

The Guardian - Opinion

The new law stamped out soft money for good, but it also created a vacuum in political fund-raising.

The New York Times - Magazine

Washington's failure to act created a vacuum that Mr. Putin and Mr. Lavrov used to boost Russia's global standing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "created a vacuum", ensure the context clearly explains what filled the void or what consequences arose from its creation. This adds depth and clarifies the impact.

Common error

Avoid using "created a vacuum" without indicating how the vacuum was filled or what resulted from it. Omitting this information can leave the reader wondering about the significance of the vacuum's creation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "created a vacuum" functions as a verb phrase, typically used transitively. It describes the action of bringing about a state of emptiness or absence, often implying that something else will inevitably fill that space. Examples on Ludwig show it in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "created a vacuum" is a common expression used to describe a situation where something has been removed or is absent, leading to a void or gap. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, primarily in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to consider what consequences arise from the vacuum or how it might be filled. Consider alternatives such as "left a void" or "generated a gap" depending on the context. By understanding its nuances and potential pitfalls, you can effectively use "created a vacuum" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

left a void

Focuses on the emptiness left behind.

generated a gap

Emphasizes the creation of a space or interval.

produced an absence

Highlights the lack of something that was previously there.

resulted in a deficiency

Indicates a lack or shortage as a consequence.

brought about a lacuna

A more formal way to describe a missing part or gap.

opened up a space

Suggests an opportunity or area that is now available.

occasioned a need

Focuses on creating a requirement or necessity.

engendered a shortage

Highlights the production of an insufficient quantity.

precipitated a dearth

Implies a severe lack or scarcity as a consequence.

instigated a gap

Focuses on the initiation of a space or interval.

FAQs

How can I use "created a vacuum" in a sentence?

You can use "created a vacuum" to describe situations where the removal or absence of something leads to a void or gap. For instance, "The leader's resignation "created a vacuum" in the organization that new leaders are trying to fill."

What's a less formal way to say "created a vacuum"?

Informal alternatives include "left a hole" or "opened up a space". For example, "His departure "left a hole" in the team" conveys a similar idea to "His departure "created a vacuum"", but with less formality.

Is it better to say "created a void" or "created a vacuum"?

"Created a void" and "created a vacuum" are largely interchangeable, but "created a vacuum" often implies that something is actively trying to fill the resulting space. "Created a void" simply indicates an emptiness. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What are some common things that might "fill a vacuum"?

Depending on the context, different things can fill a vacuum. It could be new leadership, innovative ideas, or even negative influences like misinformation or instability. The specific context dictates what steps in to occupy the void "created a vacuum".