empty space

USAGE SUMMARY

"empty space" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to an area that is not filled with anything, or has no contents. For example, "The room was filled with furniture but the wall was still left with an empty space."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Empty space isn't empty.

Cornell University

Too much empty space.

The Guardian - Books

The empty space..

The Guardian - Arts

It's empty space.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Just empty space".

The New York Times - Books

I'm an empty space.

The Guardian - Music

Most of the atom is empty space.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We are buying empty space.

The Guardian

Even nearly empty space corrodes.

The New York Times - Science

Every empty space was utilised.

The Guardian

Empty space has become solid.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In creative writing, use "empty space" to evoke feelings of loneliness, absence, or potential, depending on the context.

Common error

While "empty space" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation. Alternatives like "room" or "area" may sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "empty space" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig's examples confirm its use in describing physical locations and abstract concepts relating to a lack of content or occupation. Ludwig AI confirms it's a usable and correct phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "empty space" is a versatile noun phrase that effectively communicates the concept of unoccupied areas, physical or abstract. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While prevalent in News & Media and Academia, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts. Remember to consider the alternatives like "vacant area" or "unoccupied zone" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. By recognizing both its direct meaning and potential for evocative expression, you can harness the power of "empty space" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

emptiness

A noun form emphasizing the state of being empty.

vacant area

Replaces 'space' with 'area', emphasizing the lack of occupancy.

unused space

Highlights that the space is available but not currently in use.

unoccupied zone

Uses 'zone' to denote a region and 'unoccupied' to highlight its emptiness.

blank area

Focuses on the lack of content or markings in a specific area.

void

A more abstract and philosophical term for empty space, suggesting a lack or absence.

open area

Indicates a space that is not enclosed or restricted.

clearance

Suggests a space free from obstruction or objects.

gap

Implies a break or interval between two objects or entities.

vacuum

Refers to a space entirely devoid of matter.

FAQs

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

You can use "empty space" to describe an area that is not filled, such as: "The gallery used "negative space" effectively in its exhibit design" or "The warehouse had a lot of "unused space"".

What's the difference between "empty space" and "blank space"?

"Empty space" generally refers to a physical area that is unoccupied, while "blank space" often refers to an area that is intentionally left unmarked or unfilled, such as in a document or design.

What can I say instead of "empty space"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "vacant area", "unoccupied zone", or simply "emptiness".

Is "empty space" the same as ""negative space""?

While related, "empty space" is a general term. "Negative space" is a design principle that refers to the space around and between the subject(s) of an image.