distant point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distant point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a location that is far away or to describe a concept that is abstract or not immediately relevant. Example: "From this vantage, the distant point on the horizon seemed almost ethereal, blending into the sky."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He sees intensely but selectively, his eyes being "fixed on a distant point, a very distant point, beyond life itself".

The Guardian - Books

The young man's eyes retreated again, to some distant point of pain.

The New York Times

Here a man, there a woman, stare at some distant point with an interrogation aimed at no one.

The New York Times - Arts

Maybe, at some distant point in the 80-year "Long War" which Pentagon intellectuals lovingly predict, those responsible for defence procurement may get around to Kevlar groin flaps.

The Guardian - Opinion

It could hardly have lived up to the loftiest of memories — or at this distant point, perhaps, imaginings — in any case.

The New York Times - Arts

Classic Western gardens, whether geometric like Le Notre's or natural like Capability Brown's, can usually be viewed from one distant point.

The New York Times - Travel

Their lips parted just enough to show one row of perfectly set teeth; their eyes were fixed on a distant point, refusing to be drawn in, implicated.

The New York Times - Arts

The winter solstice is a turning point — a point at which the Earth's northern hemisphere reaches its most distant point from the sun.

The New Yorker

But the image marks a distant point in a communications business that Ms. Bolan and her colleagues assume had already been evolving for millenniums through verbal reports.

The New York Times

Instead of connecting a device at the distant point to the Powerline module, you connect a second wireless router to the far Powerline module.

The New York Times - Tech

The reception of waves at a distant point was indicated by a spark jumping across a gap in a loop of wire.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, when referring to a physical "distant point", provide relevant coordinates or references to aid understanding and reproducibility.

Common error

Avoid using "distant point" too frequently in abstract discussions. Opt for more precise terms like "long-term goal", "ultimate objective", or "future consideration" to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distant point" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as an object or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig indicates, it is generally perceived as grammatically correct, serving to designate a specific location or abstract idea that is remote or lies in the future. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in both literal and figurative senses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "distant point" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe physical or abstract locations that are far away, in either space or time. As Ludwig points out, its neutral to formal register makes it suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic writing. While versatile, it's important to consider more precise alternatives such as "remote location", "future goal", or "horizon", to avoid ambiguity. Ultimately, understanding the nuances of "distant point" allows for more effective and nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remote location

Focuses specifically on the spatial aspect of being far away.

faraway place

Emphasizes the remoteness and potential exoticism of a location.

outermost limit

Highlights the idea of being at the very edge or boundary.

farthest reach

Implies the maximum extent or range something can achieve.

horizon

Suggests a boundary that recedes as one approaches, implying distance.

vanishing point

Refers to a concept in perspective drawing where parallel lines converge in the distance.

remote possibility

Shifts the focus to a concept that is unlikely or improbable.

unlikely eventuality

Similar to 'remote possibility', but emphasizes the eventual occurrence of something improbable.

future juncture

Refers to a point in time that is far off.

far-off destination

Highlights the characteristic of a destination being a significant distance away.

FAQs

How can I use "distant point" in a sentence?

You can use "distant point" to refer to a location far away, as in, "The ship sailed towards a "distant point" on the horizon". It can also describe a future event or goal, like, "Reaching financial independence was a "distant point" in her plans".

What are some alternatives to "distant point" when referring to a location?

Alternatives include "remote location", "faraway place", or "horizon", depending on the desired nuance.

What is the difference between "distant point" and "vanishing point"?

"Distant point" generally refers to any location that is far away. "Vanishing point" is a term used in perspective drawing to describe the "distant point" where parallel lines appear to converge.

When is it appropriate to use "distant point" in a formal context?

It's appropriate in formal contexts when describing a location or a future goal that is far removed. However, ensure that the term is precise and avoids ambiguity. In some cases, "remote location" or "future objective" might be more suitable.