in the branches

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the branches" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It can be used to describe location or position within a tree or a similar structure. Example: The bird built its nest in the branches of the oak tree.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Star-shaped candles nestle in the branches.

The New York Times

Their mother, Megan Arquette, buried her nose in the branches.

The New York Times

There is a breeze high up in the branches.

The New York Times

In the branches were a number of thousands of acorns.

The New Yorker

I could see dozing koalas in the branches.

Independent

As their eyes met, a bird sang aloud in the branches of the tree.

The Guardian - Books

Depending on the season, there might be goats up in the branches, munching on the fruit.

The New York Times - Travel

Better to watch the rain fall in the branches of winter trees.

The New Yorker

Plastic bags and rubbish are caught in the branches of the olive trees.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

In addition, the branches in Solanaceae have high ω-values, despite shorter branch lengths.

Plosone

China [cartographic material] / drawn in the Branch of Research and Analysis, OSS.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the branches" to vividly describe the location of animals, objects, or activities occurring within a tree. This phrase enhances imagery and provides a sense of place.

Common error

Avoid using "on the branches" when "in the branches" is more appropriate. "In" suggests being enclosed or within the structure of the branches, while "on" implies a surface. For example, say "The bird nested in the branches" not "on the branches".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the branches" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or noun. It specifies the location or position of something, as seen in examples like "koalas in the branches" or "lights in the branches". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

19%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the branches" is a versatile and frequently used prepositional phrase that provides spatial context, typically evoking images of nature and wildlife. As Ludwig AI verifies, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable. It's commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, with primary function of specifying the location of objects, creatures, or actions within a tree structure. Remember to use 'in' to denote enclosure within the branches, rather than 'on', which implies a surface. Alternative phrases include "among the limbs" or "within the tree's canopy", each offering slightly different nuances. Therefore, using "in the branches" effectively enriches descriptions and helps create vivid imagery for your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

among the limbs

Focuses on the physical structure, emphasizing the limbs of the tree.

within the tree's canopy

Emphasizes the upper part of the tree, providing a broader image.

high in the boughs

Highlights the height and the large, sturdy branches of a tree.

up in the treetop

Emphasizes the highest point of the tree, implying a view or a sense of being above.

nestled in the foliage

Focuses on the leaves and providing shelter or hiding.

perched on a branch

Highlights a specific point of rest or observation on a single branch.

lodged in the tree

Emphasizes something being stuck or situated within the tree structure.

entangled in the branches

Highlights the idea of being caught or wrapped within the tree's structure.

high above in the tree

Emphasizes a high position in the tree canopy.

in the crown of the tree

Refers specifically to the uppermost part of the tree, the leafy head.

FAQs

How can I use "in the branches" in a sentence?

You can use "in the branches" to describe where something or someone is located within a tree. For example, "The monkey was hiding in the branches" or "The Christmas lights twinkled in the branches of the pine tree."

What are some alternative phrases to "in the branches"?

You can use alternatives such as "among the limbs", "within the tree's canopy", or "high in the boughs" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "on the branches" instead of "in the branches"?

While "on the branches" might sometimes be acceptable, "in the branches" is generally more accurate when describing something enclosed or situated within the tree's structure. "On the branches" implies being on the surface.

What imagery does "in the branches" evoke?

The phrase "in the branches" typically evokes images of nature, wildlife, and sheltered spaces. It can create a sense of being hidden, protected, or elevated within the natural world.