in the crack

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the crack" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is located within a narrow opening or fissure, often in a physical context. Example: "The small piece of paper slipped in the crack between the floorboards."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not once, but twice, American craftspeople repaired the bell by filling in the crack with new metal.

Huffington Post

Had his spying eye gleamed in the crack?

The New Yorker

Music filters out to me in the crack of dawn.

The New Yorker

Slide the ring in the crack and twist.

The New York Times

Then you'll get a little water in the crack.

The New York Times

"Actually, I think I'm better in the crack den".

The Guardian - Arts

Doing that, Mr. DeCanio said, allows the patching material to adhere better in the crack.

The New York Times

The falloff in the crack trade and new policing tactics have reduced violent crime.

The New York Times

(In the crack video, he refers to children he was coaching at football as "fucking minorities").

The New Yorker

At least in the crack trade, there's a code of honour.

The Guardian - Music

"The declines in the crack market are why things got better in the last 15 years.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in the crack", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific physical or metaphorical crack being referred to. Vague references can lead to ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "in the crack" excessively in metaphorical senses (e.g., "falling in the crack of society"), as it can sound cliché or awkward. Opt for more precise and nuanced language to convey the intended meaning.

How to use

Learn how to use "in the crack" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the crack" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase. It modifies a noun or verb by indicating location or position. Ludwig provides examples showing its use both literally (physical placement) and figuratively (situated between opposing forces or ideas).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the crack" is a prepositional phrase commonly used to describe a location, either physically within a fissure or gap, or metaphorically in an intermediate or vulnerable position. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently across diverse contexts such as news, science, and general reference. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure the context clarifies the intended meaning and to avoid overuse in metaphorical senses. For alternatives, consider phrases like "within the crevice" or "in the gap", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

within the crevice

Replaces "crack" with "crevice", suggesting a slightly deeper or more hidden space.

inside the fissure

Uses "fissure" instead of "crack", implying a more geological or structural opening.

within the interstice

Uses "interstice" which refers to a small intervening space, suggesting a more technical context.

in the gap

Employs "gap" for a more general term for a space between two objects or surfaces.

in the opening

Replaces "crack" with "opening", a broader term for any space that allows passage or visibility.

in the divide

Uses "divide" suggesting a separation or distinction where something can be found.

amidst the cleavage

Employs "cleavage", implying a split or division where something is located.

between the lines

Shifts from a physical space to an implied meaning or hidden message.

in the breach

Uses "breach" to indicate a gap created by breaking or violating something.

at the intersection

Indicates a point where two things meet or cross, not necessarily a physical crack.

FAQs

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

You can use "in the crack" to describe something physically located within a narrow opening, as in "The spider hid "in the crack" of the wall" or metaphorically, such as "He fell "in the crack" between two opposing factions".

What are some alternatives to "in the crack"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "in the crack" include "within the crevice", "inside the fissure", or "in the gap".

Is it correct to use "in the crack" in both physical and metaphorical senses?

Yes, "in the crack" can be used both literally, referring to a physical fissure, and metaphorically, to describe a situation where someone or something is caught between two options or positions. Ensure the context is clear to avoid confusion.

What's the difference between "in the crack" and "between the cracks"?

"In the crack" typically refers to something located directly within a specific crack. "Between the cracks", on the other hand, suggests something slipping through or existing in the spaces between multiple cracks or divisions, often implying neglect or oversight.