desolate spaces

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "desolate spaces" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe areas that are empty, barren, or lacking in life or activity. Example: "The artist captured the haunting beauty of desolate spaces in her latest painting, evoking a sense of loneliness and isolation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Punchdrunk re-make desolate spaces.

The Guardian

The West Bank is small, but in desolate spaces like this one it feels huge, mythic.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The desolate space, she said, "is going to be the most magnificent, verdant, luxurious green park".

The New York Times

Missing Buildings is a book of traces and shadows, of solid structures and the often desolate space between them.

The Guardian - Arts

All that was left in that damaged, desolate space was evidence that the world could disappear in a moment, leaving you God knows where.

The New Yorker

It is now a bald, scorched, desolate space with views of the ocean and the eerie sound of nothing but the wind.

The Guardian - Travel

"We're taking this desolate space and finally turning it into something," said Del T. Adams, development manager with the A&R Development Corporation of Baltimore, one of the partners in the project.

The New York Times

In this desolate space he sowed seeds of something new - he pumped it full of copper sulphate solution and waited until blue crystals grew over every surface - floors, walls, ceilings, a bathtub.

The Guardian - Arts

They launched a fundraising site, and she hired a helicopter and flew over the place where the village used to be: now a vast and desolate space covered with ice, rock and debris.

The Guardian

My perspective has changed and a pride has emerged in the once desolate space of vulnerability.

Huffington Post

Before this desolate space took over, there was life and vitality that stood in the now dank desert with accepting love.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "desolate spaces" with vivid imagery to enhance the reader's sensory experience and create a stronger emotional impact.

Common error

Avoid using "desolate spaces" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive and diminish its impact. Instead, explore synonyms or descriptive alternatives to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "desolate spaces" functions as a descriptive phrase, where "desolate" modifies the noun "spaces". Ludwig AI's analysis indicates its grammatical correctness and common usage in describing empty and abandoned locations.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "desolate spaces" is a grammatically sound and evocative expression used to describe empty or abandoned locations, according to Ludwig AI. Its register is neutral, making it suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news and media, though its frequency is considered rare. When using this phrase, consider the emotional impact you wish to create, and explore synonyms to avoid overuse. Remember that source quality and precise descriptions matter. Ludwig's analysis suggests that while not a particularly common phrase, it’s both correct and effective when used appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

desolate landscapes

A more complete phrase, adding detail to "desolate" without changing the meaning.

abandoned places

Focuses on the state of being deserted or forsaken.

desolate territories

Similar to spaces, but with a more pronounced sense of control and dominion.

empty expanses

Highlights the vastness and lack of content in the area.

barren landscapes

Emphasizes the lack of vegetation and life.

empty zones

Highlights the emptiness and lack of things in the place.

bleak environments

Conveys a sense of coldness, gloom, and unwelcoming nature.

uninhabited areas

Focuses on the absence of residents or inhabitants.

forsaken locations

Implies a sense of abandonment and being left behind.

isolated spots

Highlights the remoteness and lack of connection to other places.

FAQs

How can I describe "desolate spaces" more vividly?

Consider using sensory details to enhance the description. For example, describe the sounds (or lack thereof), the textures, and the light to create a more immersive experience for the reader. Try using synonyms like "abandoned places" or "barren landscapes".

What kind of places can be described as "desolate spaces"?

"Desolate spaces" can refer to a wide range of environments, including abandoned buildings, "empty expanses" of land, post-apocalyptic settings, or even metaphorical spaces like a character's emotional state. The key is that the space evokes a sense of emptiness or abandonment.

Are there more formal alternatives to "desolate spaces"?

While "desolate spaces" is generally appropriate for most contexts, more formal alternatives might include "uninhabited areas", "abandoned sites", or "remote locations", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "desolate" to describe abstract concepts, not just physical "spaces"?

Yes, "desolate" can be used metaphorically to describe abstract concepts such as a "desolate heart" or a "desolate career". However, ensure the context makes the meaning clear. Using "bleak environments" or "isolated spots" can also be helpful.