in your backyard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in your backyard" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is nearby or within one's immediate area, often in a literal or metaphorical sense. Example: "The best hiking trails are often found in your backyard, just waiting to be explored."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Can you imagine sitting in your backyard?

The New York Times

It's just like being in your backyard.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's not just some tree in your backyard.

The New York Times

In rural Wisconsin, you can bury people in your backyard.

The Economist

It's not an issue when it's not in your backyard.

The New York Times

"Shouldn't be in your backyard," the man told us.

The New Yorker

Sometimes that means growing vegetables in your backyard.

The New York Times

It's like having the Hamptons in your backyard".

The New York Times - Sports

We're not actually asking to live in your backyard.

The Guardian - Opinion

In your backyard, literally -- where the grill is now.

The New York Times

"Like you're playing flag football or in your backyard.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in your backyard" to emphasize the accessibility or relevance of something to a specific person or group. For example, "The solution to climate change might be right "in your backyard", through local initiatives."

Common error

While "in your backyard" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in formal writing. Opt for more precise alternatives like "locally" or "in the vicinity" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in your backyard" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used adverbially to modify a verb or adjective, indicating location or proximity. As Ludwig confirms, it describes something that is nearby or within one's immediate area.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

35%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in your backyard" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that signifies proximity, accessibility, or relevance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's considered grammatically correct and widely applicable, though its formality ranges from neutral to informal. The phrase appears frequently in news and media, as well as WikiHow guides, highlighting its versatility. When writing, it's essential to consider the context and audience to ensure the phrase's tone aligns with the overall message. While "in your backyard" effectively conveys nearness, alternative phrases like "in your local area" or ""close to home"" may be more appropriate in formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in your local area

This alternative broadens the scope slightly to include the general vicinity rather than just one's property.

in your neighborhood

This specifies a residential area, implying a community or group of houses close by.

close to home

This is a more general idiom indicating proximity and familiarity.

in your vicinity

This alternative is more formal and refers to the immediate surroundings.

nearby

This is a concise term for something that is not far away.

in close proximity

A more formal way of saying nearby.

just around the corner

This idiom indicates something is very close and easily reached.

on your doorstep

This phrase suggests something is immediately accessible or close to one's residence.

within easy reach

This describes something that can be easily accessed or obtained.

at your feet

This idiom suggests something is readily available and requires little effort to obtain.

FAQs

What does the expression "in your backyard" mean?

The expression "in your backyard" refers to something that is close to you, either literally in your physical surroundings or metaphorically in your area of interest or influence.

How can I use "in your backyard" in a sentence?

You can use "in your backyard" to indicate proximity or relevance. For example, "The best opportunities are often "close to home", in your backyard."

Are there alternatives to saying "in your backyard"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use phrases like "in your local area", "nearby", or ""close to home"".

When is it appropriate to use "in your backyard" versus "in your vicinity"?

"In your backyard" is generally more informal and suggests something very close and personal. "In your vicinity" is more formal and refers to the general surrounding area.