give enough space

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "give enough space" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to allowing someone the physical or emotional distance they need in a situation. Example: "During the argument, I realized that I needed to give enough space for my friend to process their feelings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Let's make sure that headteachers can give enough space to history to begin with so children can learn about the wonders and excitement of the past".

The Guardian

Vettel defended his actions but accepted the penalty: "I wasn't sure where he was, I couldn't see him in that moment, so decided to give enough space and went off line on the slippery paint and I was able to stay ahead and get past him.

BBC

Once again, give enough space for the next colour/s.

WikiHow

Jackets usually give enough space for the coin to slip into your sleeve.

WikiHow

Make sure that the location has enough room to hold a large crowd and give enough space for the participants to perform.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

I really, really do care – I'm just not given enough space and time to tell you that.

The Guardian

This is a chance to rethink Europe's security strategy, if Ms Mogherini has the ambition and is given enough space by the big countries.

The Economist

There was a lack of technique on the ball, including poor touch and control, although they were given enough space to get away with it.

Independent

But extra efforts were made to ensure that all crucial plot points were given enough space and time to register with the audience.

The New York Times

Some Scottish readers may say that we have not given enough space to the great northern tradition.Irish readers will argue about Flann O'Brien (aka Myles na gCopaleen).

The Guardian - Books

In California, a law now requires that egg-laying hens be given enough space to stretch, turn around and flap their wings.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "give enough space" in the context of relationships, be specific about what kind of space you are referring to, such as emotional, physical, or temporal space. For example, "I need to give my partner enough emotional space to process their grief".

Common error

Avoid using "give enough space" too generally in abstract discussions. Instead of saying, "The article didn't give enough space to the counterargument", try more precise alternatives like "The article didn't provide sufficient detail" or "The article didn't dedicate enough attention to the counterargument".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "give enough space" functions as a verb phrase where "give" is the main verb, "enough" modifies the noun "space", and the phrase conveys the act of providing a sufficient amount of room or leeway. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

40%

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "give enough space" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that means to provide sufficient room or leeway, either physically or metaphorically. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability. The phrase is most frequently used in Wiki and News & Media contexts. While generally neutral in register, its formality can vary based on the specific source. When writing, it's important to be specific about the type of space being provided and avoid overuse in overly abstract contexts. Consider alternatives like "allow sufficient room" or "provide ample leeway" for greater precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

allow sufficient room

Emphasizes the act of permitting adequate physical space, subtly shifting from 'giving' to 'allowing'.

provide ample leeway

Highlights the provision of flexibility and freedom, focusing on the degree of allowable variation.

grant sufficient latitude

Stresses the act of bestowing freedom or scope for action, adding a formal tone.

allocate adequate time

Focuses on designating an appropriate duration, changing the context from spatial to temporal.

offer sufficient clearance

Emphasizes the provision of space for something to pass through without obstruction, changing the focus to physical movement.

afford ample opportunity

Shifts the focus to providing possibilities or chances, transitioning away from physical space.

permit adequate separation

Highlights allowing a certain distance or gap between entities, focusing on prevention of contact or conflict.

leave sufficient margin

Focuses on creating a buffer or safety zone, often in calculations or planning.

dedicate enough resources

Shifts the context to assigning sufficient assets or support, moving away from physical or abstract space.

extend sufficient freedom

Stresses the act of offering liberty or autonomy, emphasizing the breadth of permissible action.

FAQs

How can I use "give enough space" in a sentence?

You can use "give enough space" to describe providing someone or something with the necessary room, time, or freedom. For example, "The instructions say to give the seedlings enough space to grow" or "It's important to give your partner enough emotional space during difficult times".

What can I say instead of "give enough space"?

Alternatives include "allow sufficient room", "provide ample leeway", or "allocate adequate time", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "give enough space" or "provide enough space"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and generally interchangeable. "Give enough space" might sound slightly more informal, while "provide enough space" may seem more formal and professional.

When should I use "give enough space" versus "leave enough space"?

"Give enough space" implies actively creating or providing space, while "leave enough space" suggests maintaining or preserving existing space. For instance, "give enough space" to new plants, but "leave enough space" when parking your car.