derelict structures

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "derelict structures" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe buildings or constructions that are abandoned, neglected, or in a state of disrepair. Example: "The city council is considering plans to renovate the area, which is currently filled with derelict structures that pose safety hazards."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The lush green hills make the derelict structures all the more striking.

The New York Times - Magazine

And as old buildings await demolition, the city's youth are dancing in the ruins, turning these derelict structures into pop-up kert (garden) clubs.

The New York Times - Style

Peter Agrapides, the 68-year-old owner of Pete's Clam Stop, a local institution, gestured at the empty Shore Theater opposite his store, part of a row of derelict structures on the north side of Surf Avenue.

The New York Times

Each 90-minute film follows a separate mystery, with Mathias's backstory a common thread: in every episode, we see him running the pain away near the decrepit caravan where he lives (a surprising number of people in Hinterland inhabit shacks, caravans or derelict structures).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Whereas in a normal town, a mayor loves nothing more than to unveil plans for an ambitious civic building project," in Detroit "elected officials since the 1960s have sweet-talked constituents by promising to tear down more derelict structures than their ­predecessors".

The New York Times - Books

The bulk of the capital budget will go toward repairing and replacing the 2.2-mile sea wall, building a pipe from Brooklyn to bring potable water to the island, upgrading the electrical and telecommunications systems, and tearing down 18 derelict structures, including a 13-story apartment building that had been used when the island was an active base.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

But the hundreds of thousands of drivers who pass the derelict structure during every rush hour might be forgiven for their skepticism.

The New York Times

It was the in-city home of William Pinkney Whyte, a Maryland governor, Baltimore mayor and United States Senator in the 19th century, but a derelict structure most recently occupied by a medical group before Mr. Peterson bought it.

The New York Times

What he actually designed in SE1 was "Neo Bankside", a "stunning development" of three towers next to Tate Modern, the transformed Bankside power station – once a derelict structure highlighted in A New London – where you can pay £1.5m for a one-bedroom flat.

The Guardian - Arts

Over a decade later and after investing around 517,000 pounds ($840,000) in the derelict structure, Mr. Taylor, a freelance architect and founder of the firm Quay 2c, and Julia Manheim, an artist, were showing local school children around their colorful and luminous home for a hands-on lesson in architecture.

The New York Times

Mr. Kralik, 41, the owner of an advertising production company, bought the derelict structure 11 years ago for 300,000 koruna — what was then about $10,000 — for his business; the side of the silo seemed like a good spot to put a billboard, he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "derelict structures" with specific sensory details (e.g. sounds, smells, textures) to immerse the reader in the scene.

Common error

Avoid using "derelict structures" when you simply mean old or historic buildings. "Derelict" implies a state of neglect and disrepair, not just age.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "derelict structures" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "derelict" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "structures". Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

18%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "derelict structures" is a grammatically correct and commonly used term to describe abandoned and deteriorating buildings. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase functions as a noun phrase with "derelict" acting as an adjective. Its usage is frequent in News & Media and Science contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, it's important to accurately convey the sense of neglect and disrepair, differentiating it from simply old buildings. Consider alternatives like "abandoned buildings" or "dilapidated buildings" depending on the specific nuance you want to communicate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

abandoned buildings

This alternative directly replaces "derelict" with "abandoned", focusing on the state of being unused.

abandoned properties

Focuses specifically on properties left unattended and unclaimed.

neglected properties

This alternative shifts the focus to the lack of care and maintenance, highlighting the responsibility aspect.

dilapidated buildings

This alternative emphasizes the state of disrepair and decay of the structures.

run-down constructions

This alternative uses a more informal tone, suggesting a state of deterioration due to age or neglect.

disused buildings

This alternative emphasizes that the buildings are no longer in use.

deteriorating buildings

This alternative focuses on the ongoing process of decay and degradation.

decaying structures

Similar to deteriorating, but emphasizes the natural process of decomposition.

ramshackle buildings

This alternative highlights the unstable and poorly constructed nature of the buildings.

crumbling edifices

This phrase adds a more dramatic and formal tone, referring to the slow disintegration of large or imposing buildings.

FAQs

How can I use "derelict structures" in a sentence?

You can use "derelict structures" to describe abandoned or neglected buildings, such as "The outskirts of the city were dotted with "derelict structures", a testament to the city's economic decline."

What are some synonyms for "derelict structures"?

Alternatives to "derelict structures" include "abandoned buildings", "neglected properties", or "dilapidated buildings". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What does "derelict" mean in the context of "derelict structures"?

In this context, "derelict" means abandoned, neglected, and in a state of disrepair. It implies a lack of care and maintenance, leading to deterioration.

Is it appropriate to use "derelict structures" in formal writing?

Yes, "derelict structures" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when describing urban decay, economic decline, or historical changes. However, consider the audience and context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.