in the open air

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the open air" is correct and is commonly used in written English.
It is used to refer to something that is outdoors, away from the confines of a building or other structure. For example, "We enjoyed a picnic lunch in the open air."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

In the open air?

The New Yorker

The bacterium grew in the open air.

The New York Times - Science

I now live in the open air.

The New Yorker

You're in the open air.

The New York Times

be enjoyed in the open air.

The New Yorker

Or perhaps part-painting in the open air.

Independent

He spurns the charms of painting in the open air.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Waste is disposed in the open-air municipal landfill, located 15 km north of the city.

Wikipedia

In the open-air prison of Gaza, though, everywhere is the front line.

Independent

Irradiation was carried out in the open-air condition.

Chemistry Central Journal

It was magical, under the stars in the open-air temple of Bacchus.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the open air" to emphasize a contrast with indoor, enclosed environments. For example, "The market is held in the open air, offering a refreshing change from shopping malls."

Common error

Avoid using "in the open air" when you simply mean "outside". The phrase carries a slightly more formal or descriptive tone, so consider if a simpler alternative like "outdoors" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the open air" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs by specifying the location or setting of an action. It indicates where something is happening, similar to adverbs of place. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

22%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in the open air" is a prepositional phrase functioning as an adverbial modifier to describe activities or events taking place outdoors. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used across diverse reputable sources, primarily within News & Media and Science domains. While it maintains a neutral register suitable for varied contexts, remember simpler alternatives like "outdoors" may sometimes suffice. This analysis ensures accurate and contextually appropriate usage of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outdoors

Single-word alternative that directly conveys the meaning of being outside.

outside

Another single-word alternative indicating a location beyond enclosed spaces.

al fresco

Borrowed from Italian, this term specifically refers to dining or activities enjoyed outdoors.

in the fresh air

Emphasizes the quality of the air while still denoting an outdoor setting.

under the sky

Poetic alternative highlighting the open expanse above.

open-air

Adjectival form used to describe events or venues that are not enclosed.

in nature

Broadly refers to settings that are natural and not man-made.

in the wilderness

Suggests a more remote and untamed outdoor environment.

open to the elements

Highlights exposure to weather conditions when outside.

out in the open

Implies visibility and lack of concealment, in addition to being outdoors.

FAQs

How can I use "in the open air" in a sentence?

Use "in the open air" to describe activities or events that occur outdoors. For example, "We enjoyed a picnic "in the open air"", or "The concert was held "in the open air"".

What's a more concise way to say "in the open air"?

Alternatives like "outdoors" or "outside" can often replace "in the open air" for a more direct expression.

Is "in open air" grammatically correct?

The correct and more common form is ""in the open air"". The inclusion of "the" makes the phrase grammatically sound.

What's the difference between "in the open air" and "al fresco"?

"In the open air" is a general term for being outdoors. "Al fresco", borrowed from Italian, specifically refers to dining outdoors.