flanked by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flanked by" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is positioned on either side of another object or person. Example: "The statue was flanked by two tall trees, creating a picturesque scene."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Flanked by footsoldiers.

The Guardian - Film

"Flanked by two peacocks!

The New York Times

Pint-size villains flanked by thuggish minions!

The New York Times

James was flanked by two security agents.

The New York Times - Sports

An oasis flanked by industry.

The Guardian

Albi is flanked by the Mediterranean and Atlantic Coasts.

The New York Times

Adam takes charge, flanked by his bandmates.

University of California, Berkeley

In 1994, she was flanked by Bill and Chelsea.

The New Yorker

The general was flanked by his men.

The Guardian

Polonius's office is flanked by filing boxes.

The Guardian

Flanked by his advisers, including James.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "flanked by" to create a vivid image of objects or people positioned symmetrically around a central subject, enhancing the description's visual impact.

Common error

Avoid using "flanked by" when the objects are not positioned on both sides of the subject, as it implies a balanced or symmetrical arrangement. Use "near" or "beside" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flanked by" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe the spatial arrangement of objects or entities on either side of it. Ludwig examples show various subjects being described using this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the prepositional phrase "flanked by" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe something positioned on either side of a subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently in diverse contexts, especially in News & Media. The phrase's neutral tone makes it suitable for a wide range of writing styles. Remember to use "flanked by" when you want to create a visual image of symmetry or balance around a central point.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with on each side

A more literal and descriptive way of expressing the same spatial relationship.

bordered by

Indicates a boundary or edge on either side, suggesting adjacency and containment.

positioned alongside

Focuses on placement next to something, emphasizing a parallel arrangement.

lined by

Indicates a row or series of things positioned along the sides, often in a linear fashion.

set beside

Indicates being placed next to, but with a slightly more deliberate or formal connotation.

accompanied by

Implies being together or going along with, but doesn't necessarily indicate positioning on either side.

surrounded by

Suggests being enclosed or encircled, rather than specifically positioned on either side.

guarded by

Highlights the protective aspect of being positioned on either side, implying security.

escorted by

Implies being accompanied by someone or something for protection or guidance on either side.

attended by

Suggests being accompanied by someone providing service or assistance on either side.

FAQs

How can I use "flanked by" in a sentence?

Use "flanked by" to describe something positioned on both sides of another object or person, such as "The building was "bordered by" two trees".

What are some alternatives to "flanked by"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "bordered by", "accompanied by", or "surrounded by".

Is it correct to say "flanked with" instead of "flanked by"?

"Flanked by" is the standard and more widely accepted phrasing. "Flanked with" is less common and can sound awkward. Stick to "flanked by" for clarity and correctness.

What does "flanked by" imply about the objects on either side?

"Flanked by" suggests that the objects on either side are significant or prominent enough to be noted, often implying a sense of balance, protection, or enhancement of the central subject's presence.