in a corner

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a corner" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to a physical location. For example: "He was sitting in a corner of the room, alone with his thoughts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We're in a corner".

The New York Times

Smoking in a corner.

The New Yorker

We sat in a corner.

The New Yorker

Go sit in a corner.

The New York Times

I was in a corner, naked.

The New York Times

— taxidermy, and put me in a corner.

The New Yorker

You cannot put me in a corner.

The New York Times

No one puts Piggy in a corner.

The New Yorker

A cracked mirror sat in a corner.

The New York Times - Arts

Hencic and McWebb stood in a corner.

The New Yorker

In a corner, a cat snoozes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in a corner" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates the sense of being trapped, disadvantaged, or facing limitations.

Common error

Avoid using "in a corner" solely to indicate a physical location when you intend to convey a sense of being trapped or without options. Choose more direct language to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a corner" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify location or circumstance. Ludwig AI shows this is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a corner" is a versatile prepositional phrase primarily functioning as an adverbial modifier. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is considered grammatically correct and boasts widespread use. Its applications span literal descriptions of location to metaphorical representations of constraint or difficulty. It commonly appears in "News & Media", demonstrating its relevance in current affairs. To ensure clarity, avoid using "in a corner" as a mere physical descriptor when intending a figurative meaning. Alternatives like "backed into a corner" or "in a tight spot" can provide more precision when referring to challenging situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

backed into a corner

This alternative emphasizes the sense of being trapped or forced into a difficult situation.

in a tight spot

This suggests a difficult situation or predicament, similar to being "in a corner".

in a difficult situation

A broader phrase that encompasses the idea of being "in a corner" metaphorically.

confined to a small space

This alternative highlights the physical restriction aspect of being "in a corner".

at a disadvantage

This phrase focuses on the strategic or competitive disadvantage implied by being "in a corner".

in an awkward position

Implies a difficult or uncomfortable social or professional situation.

with limited options

This describes the constraint associated with being "in a corner".

in a bind

Suggests being stuck or trapped in a problematic situation.

in a predicament

This refers to a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation.

up against it

This idiom describes facing significant challenges or difficulties.

FAQs

How can I use "in a corner" in a sentence?

You can use "in a corner" to describe a physical location, as in "The chair was "in a corner" of the room". It can also be used metaphorically to describe a difficult situation, such as "The company was backed "backed into a corner" by the new regulations".

What are some alternatives to "in a corner"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "in a corner" include "in a tight spot", "at a disadvantage", or "confined to a small space".

When is it appropriate to use "in a corner" metaphorically?

Use "in a corner" metaphorically when you want to convey a sense of being trapped, having limited options, or facing a difficult situation. Make sure the context makes this figurative meaning clear.

What does it mean to be "backed into a corner"?

To be "backed into a corner" means to be forced into a situation where you have very few options or are at a significant disadvantage. It often implies a sense of desperation or being trapped.