in darkness

USAGE SUMMARY

"in darkness" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a literal absence of light, or a metaphorically figure of speech for a situation which is unseen, unknown, and perhaps even sinister. Example sentence: The shadows began to whisper their secrets in darkness.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We begin in darkness.

The New Yorker

The show starts in darkness.

The New York Times - Arts

The rest toiled in darkness.

The New York Times

We pressed on, in darkness.

The New York Times

The show begins in darkness.

The New Yorker

Sometimes smothered in darkness.

The Guardian - Opinion

We're in darkness".

The Guardian - Sport

They wait in darkness.

The New York Times

"We are in darkness there," she said.

The New York Times - Health

The concert had begun in darkness too.

The New York Times - Arts

The room was shrouded in darkness.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To create a contrast, pair "in darkness" with contrasting terms like "light", "revelation", or "understanding" to highlight the shift from obscurity to clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "in darkness" when a more precise term for ignorance or lack of information is available. Overusing the metaphor can weaken your writing; instead, opt for specific terms like "unaware", "misinformed", or "ignorant" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in darkness" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the condition or state in which an action occurs. It provides context about the setting or circumstances, indicating a lack of light or, metaphorically, a state of ignorance or secrecy. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

30%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Huffington Post

5%

Advances in Space Research

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in darkness" is a versatile prepositional phrase, functioning primarily as an adverbial modifier to describe conditions of literal or figurative obscurity. Ludwig AI confirms that its usage is grammatically correct and frequently encountered across a broad range of contexts, from news and media to scientific literature. While "in darkness" is generally neutral in register, its application can evoke a sense of mystery or foreboding, making it a powerful tool for writers. When using the phrase, it is important to consider the specific nuance you wish to convey and to avoid overuse, opting for more precise language when appropriate. Alternatives include phrases like "in the dark" and "in obscurity", each carrying slightly different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the dark

This alternative directly relates to a lack of information or understanding, similar to a state of literal darkness.

unilluminated

This refers to a lack of physical light, directly mirroring the literal meaning of "in darkness".

in obscurity

This suggests a state of being unknown, unseen, or disregarded, akin to something hidden "in darkness".

unseen

This emphasizes the absence of visibility, reflecting the state of being "in darkness".

shrouded in mystery

This implies that something is concealed or enigmatic, evoking a sense of something being hidden "in darkness".

veiled in secrecy

This emphasizes the confidential and hidden nature, similar to being concealed "in darkness".

cloaked in shadow

This paints a picture of being hidden or protected by shadows, akin to being "in darkness".

under wraps

This suggests something is being kept secret or concealed, much like something hidden "in darkness".

out of the light

This indicates a deliberate removal from public view or knowledge, similar to being "in darkness".

in stealth

This describes actions performed secretly or covertly, evoking a sense of concealment similar to being "in darkness".

FAQs

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

You can use "in darkness" to describe a literal absence of light (e.g., "The room was completely in darkness") or metaphorically to describe ignorance or secrecy (e.g., "The negotiations proceeded in darkness, away from public scrutiny").

What are some alternatives to saying "in darkness"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "in the dark", "in obscurity", or "shrouded in mystery".

Is it correct to use "in darkness" to describe a lack of knowledge?

Yes, using "in darkness" metaphorically to describe a lack of knowledge or understanding is grammatically correct and commonly used, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

What's the difference between "in darkness" and "in the shadows"?

"In darkness" generally implies a complete absence of light or knowledge, whereas "in the shadows" suggests partial concealment or lurking. While they can be used interchangeably in some contexts, "in the shadows" often carries a connotation of secrecy or hidden activity.