is empty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is empty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of having no content or being devoid of anything. Example: "The box is empty, and we need to find something to fill it with."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The ledge is empty.

The New York Times

His inn is empty.

The New York Times

LaGuardia is empty.

The New Yorker

"His locker is empty.

The New York Times - Sports

Newt is empty calories.

The New York Times

The table is empty.

The New York Times

The coffin is empty.

The New York Times - Magazine

The bag is empty.

The New York Times

Her mind is empty.

The New York Times

The sea is empty.

Independent

ActionQueue is empty.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts like emotions or thoughts, using "is empty" can effectively convey a sense of detachment, lack of fulfillment, or absence of meaning. For instance, "His words sounded nice, but his heart is empty."

Common error

Avoid using "is empty" excessively in metaphorical contexts where other expressions might be more nuanced. For example, instead of saying "The meeting is empty of ideas", consider "The meeting lacked innovative ideas" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is empty" functions primarily as a descriptive statement, indicating that a subject lacks content or substance. This aligns with Ludwig's observation that it is a valid and usable phrase in written English. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in describing physical spaces, containers, and abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is empty" is a grammatically sound and highly versatile expression used to describe a state of lacking content, substance, or occupation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its prevalence across diverse domains, particularly in news and media, underscores its relevance in contemporary English. When writing, consider the nuances of related phrases like "is vacant" or "is devoid of" to enhance precision, and avoid overuse in metaphorical contexts for clarity. Remember, while "is empty" is a useful descriptor, carefully assess the tone and context to choose the most appropriate phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is vacant

Focuses on the state of being unoccupied or not filled, often referring to physical spaces.

is devoid of

Emphasizes the complete absence of something, highlighting a lack or deficiency.

is unoccupied

Specifically denotes that a space or object is not currently being used or inhabited.

is clear

Indicates the absence of obstructions or contents, suggesting openness and accessibility.

is hollow

Suggests a lack of substance or depth, implying a superficial or meaningless quality.

is bare

Highlights the simplicity and lack of adornment, suggesting a basic or unembellished state.

is exhausted

Implies that something has been completely used up or depleted, leaving nothing remaining.

contains nothing

Directly states the absence of any contents, emphasizing the emptiness of a container or space.

has nothing inside

Similar to "contains nothing", but focuses on the interior space of something.

is depleted

Highlights the reduction or exhaustion of resources, leading to a state of emptiness.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "is empty"?

When something "is empty", it means it contains nothing; it's vacant or devoid of contents. This can apply to physical objects (like a container) or abstract concepts (like a feeling).

How can I use "is empty" in a sentence?

You can use "is empty" to describe a physical space, such as "The room is empty", or a more abstract idea, like "The promise "is empty"".

What can I say instead of "is empty"?

Alternatives to "is empty" include "is vacant", "is devoid of", or "is unoccupied", depending on the context.

Is "is empty" grammatically correct?

Yes, "is empty" is grammatically correct. The word "is" serves as a linking verb connecting the subject to the adjective "empty", describing its state.