in the distance

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the distance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to talk about something that is not close, but can still be seen. For example: "I could see the snow-capped mountains in the distance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

dormitories in the distance.

The New Yorker

In the distance, grand.

The New Yorker

Helicopters buzzed in the distance.

The New Yorker

Something explodes in the distance.

The New Yorker

In the distance, the mountains.

The New Yorker

In the distance, artillery boomed.

The New York Times

Cornfields were in the distance.

The New York Times - Sports

Explosions thundered in the distance.

The New Yorker

The Deli in the Distance!

The New Yorker

They heard fireworks in the distance.

The New York Times - Sports

Howler monkeys screamed in the distance.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the distance" to create a sense of depth and perspective in your writing, allowing the reader to visualize elements that are not immediately present but still part of the scene.

Common error

Avoid using "in the distance" when describing objects that are nearby or clearly visible. This can create confusion and weaken the descriptive impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the distance" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs by specifying where something is located relative to the observer. This is supported by Ludwig's analysis, which confirms its common and correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the distance" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to denote spatial separation. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent and correct usage across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. It functions as an adverbial phrase, adding spatial context to descriptions. While versatile, it's best used to describe objects or events that are far but perceptible, avoiding overuse for nearby elements. Alternatives such as "afar" or "on the horizon" can provide nuanced substitutes. Understanding these nuances ensures effective and vivid communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the far distance

A more emphatic version of the original phrase.

from a distance

Highlights the act of observing or perceiving from afar.

on the horizon

Suggests something is coming but not yet close, often used metaphorically.

afar

This single-word alternative succinctly expresses the idea of being distant.

some way off

Emphasizes the extent of the distance.

in the background

Focuses on the spatial relationship, suggesting something is behind the main focus.

at a remove

Indicates something is separated or detached, implying distance.

in the offing

Suggests something is likely to happen in the future, relating to temporal distance.

at arm's length

Indicates keeping something or someone separate, maintaining distance.

over yonder

An informal way of pointing out something that is not close by.

FAQs

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

You can use "in the distance" to describe something that is far away but still visible. For example, "We could see the mountains "in the distance"".

What are some alternatives to "in the distance"?

Alternatives include "afar", "on the horizon", or "from a distance" depending on the context.

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

"In the distance" typically refers to something visually perceived, while "at a distance" can refer to physical or emotional separation. For example, "The island was visible "in the distance"" versus "She kept him "at a distance"".

Can "in the distance" be used metaphorically?

Yes, "in the distance" can be used metaphorically to refer to something that is not immediately present or attainable, such as a goal or ambition. For example, "Success seemed far "in the distance" during the early stages of the project".