in the far distance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the far distance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to describe something that is located far away. For example, "I could see a faint light in the far distance, indicating the start of our journey."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

In the far distance a few peaks or Catalina Island may stick out — more magic.

Los Angeles Times

Thunder rolled in the far distance.

The New Yorker

They could hear artillery shells in the far distance.

The New Yorker

In the far distance, waiting patiently, we saw the ocean.

The New York Times

F.S. Dellenbaugh mounted on a horse in a desert landscape, trees in the far distance.

Yale University

In the far distance rises a factory's plume of smoke: King's Lynn.

The Guardian - Travel

In the far distance people bounced on balance balls and frolicked under a spray mist.

The New York Times - Arts

In the far distance are the autobahns where motorists are rarely troubled by speed limits.

The Guardian - Business

Stylized figures and boatlike shapes, derived from aboriginal cave paintings, float in the far distance.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

In the far distance lurks the indelicate outline of Sizewell nuclear power station.

The Guardian - Travel

There's a modest ski resort here which overlooks the glittering blue Beagle Channel and, in the far distance, Cape Horn.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "in the far distance" with sensory details to enrich the reader's experience. Describe not only what is seen, but also sounds or smells that might reach the observer from that location.

Common error

Avoid using "in the far distance" when describing close-up or intimate scenes. This phrase creates a sense of separation and detachment, which may be inappropriate if you want to convey intimacy or immediacy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the far distance" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses by indicating the location or position of something. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

13%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in the far distance" is a grammatically sound and versatile prepositional phrase used to denote spatial remoteness. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely accepted and applied across diverse writing styles. The phrase is particularly effective in descriptive passages, offering a sense of depth and perspective. Predominantly found in news and media, and academic writing, it maintains a neutral tone. When using "in the far distance", consider the context to avoid redundancy or overuse in scenes that require intimacy. Opt for alternatives like "at a great distance" or "in the remote background" to fine-tune the nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In the remote background

Emphasizes the background aspect of something that is far away. Focus is more directional.

In the distant horizon

Specifically refers to things seen on the horizon, implying a visual limit.

At a great distance

A more general expression of remoteness, without the implied visual component.

Far off

A shorter, more informal way of saying something is a long way away.

In the background

Focuses on relative position rather than emphasizing how far away something is. It can suggest something is less important or noticeable.

On the horizon

Indicates that something is likely to happen in the future; metaphorically extends distance to time.

Afar

A more literary and archaic way of saying 'far away'.

In the periphery

Suggests something is at the edge of one's vision or awareness.

At arm's length

Suggests emotional or relational distance; something you are consciously keeping away from you.

In the mists of time

Relates to events far in the past.

FAQs

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

You can use "in the far distance" to describe something that is located a long way away, such as "We could see the mountains "in the far distance"".

What are some alternatives to saying "in the far distance"?

Some alternatives include "in the remote background", "at a great distance", or "far off", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "in the far off distance"?

Yes, "in the far off distance" can be considered slightly redundant. It's generally better to use ""in the far distance"" or simply "far off".

What's the difference between "in the distance" and "in the far distance"?

"In the distance" implies something is relatively far away, while ""in the far distance"" suggests something is extremely remote and possibly difficult to see clearly.