in distance

USAGE SUMMARY

Sentence The phrase "in distance" is technically correct, but it is not very commonly used in written English.
If you do decide to use it, it is typically used to refer to something that is far away in either space or time. Example: The distant shore is still visible in the distance.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We're not interested in distance.

The New Yorker

The road measures life in distance.

The New York Times - Books

"I believe in distance rather than documentary".

The Guardian

That could be the combination for success in distance education.

The New York Times - Tech

"Consider: 2008 - Ranked 1st in distance of putts made.

The Guardian - Sport

But the increase in distance has come at a cost.

The New York Times - Sports

He could even go back in distance for the JLT".

The Guardian - Sport

2006 - Ranked 1st in distance of putts made.

The Guardian - Sport

"He's got a speedy colt cutting back in distance.

The New York Times - Sports

A slight difference in distance or attitude affects recognition.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That's why Shell wants to "Go Further," literally--in distance, not in time.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical separation, use "in distance" to clearly indicate the spatial gap between two points or objects. For abstract concepts, consider alternatives like "in understanding" or "in agreement" to extend its application.

Common error

Avoid using "in distance" interchangeably with "at a distance" when describing observation. "At a distance" often implies viewing something from afar, whereas "in distance" focuses on measuring or noting the separation itself.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in distance" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate spatial separation or extent. Ludwig highlights its use in various contexts to specify how far apart things are, either physically or conceptually.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in distance" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to specify spatial or conceptual separation. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and finds frequent application across various domains, especially in news and media, science, and encyclopedias. While highly common, writers should be aware of potential confusion with similar phrases like "at a distance", which imply observation rather than measurement. Consider alternatives like "at a distance", "from afar", or "over a distance" for nuanced expression. Remember to employ "in distance" to bring clarity to the extent of separation, whether physical or abstract, enhancing the precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a distance

Replaces the preposition "in" with "at", emphasizing a specific location of separation.

from afar

Implies observation or perception from a significant separation.

over a distance

Highlights the extent of separation between two points.

remotely located

Focuses on the location being far away from populated areas.

separated by

Emphasizes the division or gap created by the spatial separation.

far off

Suggests a distant location, often with an element of obscurity.

at range

Implies a separation where interaction is still possible, especially in fields like weaponry or observation.

a long way off

Indicates a substantial separation in either space or time.

miles away

Specifies the separation in terms of miles, emphasizing the largeness of the separation.

out of reach

Implies a separation that prevents physical access or attainment.

FAQs

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

You can use "in distance" to describe spatial separation, as in "The two cities are thousands of miles apart "in distance" and understanding."

What are some alternatives to "in distance"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "at a distance", "from afar", or "over a distance".

Is there a difference between "in distance" and "at a distance"?

"In distance" focuses more on the measurement or degree of separation, while "at a distance" often implies observation from a remote location.

Can "in distance" be used for non-physical separation?

Yes, "in distance" can be extended to abstract concepts, such as "in understanding" or "in agreement", to describe conceptual gaps.