desolate landscape

USAGE SUMMARY

"desolate landscape" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to a landscape that has few or no people or features in it, especially one that appears bleak or empty. For example: The volcanic crater created an eerie, desolate landscape.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The footprints weave intricate paths across the desolate landscape.

The Washington Post

That desolate landscape inspires, and it's where I live.

The Guardian - Music

But, in this desolate landscape of lost souls, she can't stifle her true nature.

The New York Times

Species that migrate to Texas in winter will find a desolate landscape awaiting them.

The New York Times

Across a desolate landscape bleached by the sun, I drove my Nissan to the levee.

Independent

The desolate landscape of Act 3's opening mimicked Wieland Wagner's minimalism.

The New York Times - Arts

In one, he sees a dusty and faded picture he describes as "an armored figure standing in a desolate landscape.

The New Yorker

I found an even more desolate landscape on the upper concourse for the 400 Level of the Verizon Center.

The New York Times

The desolate landscape is as harsh as her local kin, who are none too pleased with her snooping.

Independent

New motorways, gleaming shopping malls and factories equipped with the latest technology pepper the once desolate landscape.

The Economist

Those brief film clips reveal only a somewhat ethereal villain, now hidden in distant caves in a desolate landscape.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use precise and vivid descriptions alongside "desolate landscape" to amplify its impact. Mention specific features that contribute to its desolation such as withered vegetation, cracked earth, or abandoned structures.

Common error

Avoid using "desolate landscape" in every description of an empty area. Vary your vocabulary with synonyms like "barren terrain" or "bleak vista" to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "desolate landscape" functions primarily as a descriptive element, adding detail and imagery to convey a sense of emptiness, abandonment, and bleakness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

99%

Science

0.5%

Formal & Business

0.5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "desolate landscape" is grammatically correct and very common, primarily used in news and media to describe barren and empty areas. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys a sense of loneliness and isolation. When writing, consider the emotional impact you wish to create and vary your vocabulary with synonyms like "barren terrain" or "bleak vista" to avoid overuse. The phrase maintains a neutral register, suitable for various communication styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

desolate terrain

Focuses on the physical characteristics of the land.

desolate wilderness

Emphasizes the untamed and isolated nature of the area.

barren terrain

Focuses on the unproductive nature of the land.

bleak vista

Emphasizes the cheerless and depressing appearance.

barren surroundings

Highlights the lack of vegetation and life in the area.

empty wasteland

Highlights the lack of inhabitants and resources.

forlorn scenery

Suggests a sense of abandonment and sadness.

arid expanse

Focuses on the dryness and vastness of the area.

bleak environment

Highlights a negative and depressing atmosphere.

empty quarter

Implies an isolated area with very few inhabitants.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "desolate landscape" in a sentence?

To use "desolate landscape" effectively, provide specific details that enhance the sense of emptiness and isolation. For instance, you could describe the lack of vegetation or signs of life.

What are some alternatives to "desolate landscape"?

You can use alternatives like "barren terrain", "bleak vista", or "empty wasteland", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "desolate landscape" formal or informal?

"Desolate landscape" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the overall tone and style of your writing. It's commonly used in news articles, literature, and descriptive writing.

What is the difference between "desolate landscape" and "abandoned landscape"?

"Desolate landscape" emphasizes the emptiness and lack of life, while "abandoned landscape" implies that the area was once inhabited or used but is now deserted. The first focuses on the current condition, the second one on the human impact.