is level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is level" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being flat, even, or balanced, often in contexts related to surfaces or conditions. Example: "The table is level, ensuring that the items placed on it won't roll off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Level is level and plumb is plumb.

The New York Times

But exactly how level is "level"?

The Economist

63 is level with Fred Trueman.

The Guardian - Sport

Best of all, the trail is level.

The New York Times - Travel

"It is important that the playing field is level.

The Guardian - Business

He is level fourth in the championship with Raikkonen.

The Guardian - Sport

What this agreement does is level the playing field".

The New York Times

All I'm trying to do is level the playing field.

The New York Times - Magazine

The former's now +1, the defending champ is level par.

The Guardian - Sport

Stricker misses his birdie opportunity and the match is level.

The Guardian - Sport

According to D.H.L. Worldwide, the playing field is level.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is level" to describe a surface, ensure the context clarifies what standard of levelness is being applied. A carpenter's level, for instance, provides a different degree of precision than visual estimation.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on visual inspection to determine if something "is level". Always use a leveling tool for accurate results, especially in situations where precision is crucial, such as construction or installation projects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is level" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of a noun. It indicates that something possesses the quality of being flat, even, or aligned horizontally. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

37%

News & Media

34%

Science

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is level" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe something that is flat, even, or aligned horizontally. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans across various contexts, from practical instructions (WikiHow) to news reporting (The Guardian, The New York Times). While generally neutral in register, it's essential to use leveling tools for accuracy and precision, rather than relying solely on visual assessment. Alternatives such as "is horizontal" or "is even" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is horizontal

Focuses specifically on the horizontal orientation, implying a lack of slope or inclination.

is even

Highlights the uniformity and lack of irregularities in a surface or condition.

is flat

Emphasizes the absence of curves or bumps, indicating a smooth surface.

is aligned

Suggests that something is in the correct position or orientation relative to a reference point.

is balanced

Implies stability and equilibrium, often used in contexts involving weight distribution or forces.

is flush

Describes two surfaces that are perfectly aligned with each other, with no gaps or protrusions.

is uniform

Highlights the consistency and lack of variation in a surface or condition.

is parallel

Indicates that two lines or surfaces maintain a constant distance from each other and never intersect.

is steady

Suggests stability and a lack of movement or wavering.

is plumb

Implies vertical alignment, often used in construction and engineering contexts.

FAQs

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

You can use "is level" to describe a surface that is flat and horizontal, such as "The table "is level", so the drinks won't spill" or "Make sure the shelf "is level" before placing anything on it".

What are some alternatives to saying "is level"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "is horizontal", "is even", or "is flat" instead of "is level".

When should I use "is level" versus "is balanced"?

"Is level" typically refers to a surface being flat and horizontal, while "is balanced" implies an equal distribution of weight or forces. A table can be level but not balanced if one side is heavier.

What does it mean when someone says the "playing field is level"?

The phrase "playing field is level" is an idiom that means everyone has an equal opportunity or fair chance.