directing traffic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "directing traffic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to managing the flow of vehicles or pedestrians, often in a literal sense or metaphorically in various situations. Example: "The officer was directing traffic at the busy intersection to ensure everyone crossed safely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Security people were directing traffic.

The New Yorker

He was directing traffic on Bronx st.

The New Yorker

I almost started directing traffic around it.

The Guardian - Books

The job's duties include directing traffic and writing tickets.

The New York Times

"Hey!" Mr. Kerper yelled, "you're not directing traffic out there!

The New York Times

Over on Lexington Avenue, there are civilians directing traffic".

The New York Times

A sea of green scrub suits rushed around directing traffic.

The New York Times - Health

The police have trouble with such simple things as directing traffic & containing crowds.

The New Yorker

But when Mr. Aguilar is out directing traffic, it is hard for him not to nosh.

The New York Times

Revolutionary volunteers and policemen were directing traffic with flags and victory signs.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

SopB is important in 'directing traffic' in the early stages of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium entry into host cells.

BMC Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add clarity, specify who is "directing traffic" (e.g., police officers, volunteers, robots).

Common error

When using "directing traffic" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being managed. Vague usage can confuse readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "directing traffic" functions as a gerund phrase when used as a noun, describing the activity of managing the movement of vehicles or people. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "directing traffic" is a common and grammatically correct gerund phrase used to describe the action of managing the flow of vehicles or pedestrians. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and widespread use. It is frequently found in news and media, as well as in more informal contexts like wikis. While typically neutral in register, it can be adapted for various situations, both literally and metaphorically. When using the phrase, it's essential to ensure clarity, especially when applied metaphorically. Alternative phrases such as "managing traffic flow" or "controlling vehicular movement" can provide nuanced meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

managing the flow of traffic

Focuses on the overall management rather than the specific action of directing.

controlling vehicular movement

Uses more formal language to describe the action of managing vehicles.

regulating traffic circulation

Emphasizes the regulated nature of traffic flow.

supervising traffic patterns

Highlights the oversight aspect of managing traffic.

marshalling traffic

Uses a more formal and somewhat archaic term for directing.

routing traffic

Focuses on setting the path for traffic.

overseeing traffic

Indicates a higher-level supervisory role.

facilitating traffic flow

Highlights the ease and efficiency of traffic movement.

traffic management

A broader term encompassing all aspects of traffic control.

traffic control

A general term referring to the act of managing traffic

FAQs

How is "directing traffic" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "directing traffic" is used to describe the action of guiding or controlling the movement of vehicles or people. For instance, "The police officer was "directing traffic" at the intersection."

What are some alternatives to "directing traffic"?

You can use alternatives like "managing traffic flow", "controlling vehicular movement", or "regulating traffic circulation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "directing traffic" in a metaphorical sense?

Yes, "directing traffic" can be used metaphorically to describe managing or guiding the flow of information, resources, or people in a non-literal context. However, ensure the context makes the intended meaning clear.

What's the difference between "directing traffic" and "traffic control"?

"Directing traffic" refers to the specific action of guiding vehicles or pedestrians, while "traffic control" is a broader term that encompasses all methods and strategies used to manage traffic flow, including signaling, road design, and enforcement.