empty patch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "empty patch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a vacant area or space, often in a physical or metaphorical context. Example: "The garden had an empty patch where nothing had been planted, waiting for new flowers to bloom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Nearby, a garland lay in an empty patch of grass.

The New Yorker

In one case, a woman was found burned on an empty patch of grass.

The Guardian

His most ardent fans are invited to build homesteads in "Paulville", an empty patch of west Texas.

The Economist

As construction hasn't begun, it's still a mostly empty patch of land, but at least everyone has heard of it.

The New York Times

India's political class discovered Dharavi in the 1980s, when any migrant who jabbed four posts into an empty patch of dirt could claim a homestead.

The New York Times

From his kitchen, I could see a small rubber plantation on Great Swinton, next to an empty patch where trees had been logged.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Empty patches of water showed where docks had disappeared, pilings and all.

The New Yorker

There are huge empty patches in his childhood recollections, as there are in anyone's, of course.

The New York Times

But those empty patches in the median might cause another commotion: I'd need those purple irises back.

The New York Times - Tech

Despite empty patches of land, and half-filled new office blocks in which many find space too expensive to rent, Mupende insists the scheme is realistic and workable.

The Guardian

From that perch, they saw empty patches of grass with untrampled dandelions that in years past were covered by other spectators' cars, campers and trailers.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "empty patch" when you want to describe a small area that is noticeably lacking something, whether it's vegetation, buildings, or other features. Consider the context to ensure it's the most appropriate descriptor.

Common error

Avoid using "empty patch" in highly formal or technical writing where more precise terminology like "vacant lot" or "unoccupied space" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "empty patch" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "empty" modifies the noun "patch". This creates a descriptive term for an area lacking content or occupation. As seen in Ludwig, it is used to denote both literal spaces and metaphorical voids.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "empty patch" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that describes a vacant area or space. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not overly formal, it's versatile enough for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. Alternatives like "vacant spot" or "bare spot" can provide more specific connotations. Keep in mind it's often better to use "an" instead of "a" before the phrase, because "empty" starts with a vowel. While "empty patch" isn't the most frequent phrase, it remains a useful descriptor when accuracy is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Bare spot

Highlights the lack of vegetation or covering.

Vacant spot

Replaces "patch" with "spot", emphasizing a specific location.

Vacant lot

Specifically refers to an empty plot of land, often in an urban setting.

Unused area

Focuses on the lack of utilization of a space.

Unoccupied space

Focuses on the absence of inhabitants or occupants in the area.

Unfilled space

Highlights the absence of something that would normally occupy the area.

Open space

Emphasizes the availability and lack of obstruction in the area.

Clear area

Suggests an area that has been intentionally cleared or is naturally free of obstacles.

Blank space

Emphasizes the lack of any features or markings in the area.

Barren area

Highlights the lack of productivity or life in the area.

FAQs

How can I use "empty patch" in a sentence?

You can use "empty patch" to describe a physical space lacking something, such as "The garden had an empty patch where the flowers used to be" or a metaphorical void, such as "Her life felt like an empty patch after her children left home".

What can I say instead of "empty patch"?

You can use alternatives like "vacant spot", "bare spot", or "open space", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "a empty patch" instead of "an empty patch"?

No, it is not correct. Since "empty" begins with a vowel sound, the correct article to use is "an", not "a". The correct phrase is "an empty patch".

What's the difference between "empty patch" and "vacant lot"?

"Empty patch" is a more general term that can refer to any small, unoccupied area. "Vacant lot" specifically refers to an empty plot of land, often in an urban or suburban setting.