is tight

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is tight" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is firmly held, secure, or closely fitting, often in a physical context or metaphorically to describe a situation. Example: "The lid on the jar is tight, making it difficult to open."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The timing is tight.

The Economist

It is tight.

The Guardian - Sport

Money is tight.

The New York Times

Square footage is tight?

The New York Times

Supply is tight.

The Economist

Still, security is tight.

The New York Times

But timing is tight.

The Economist

But time is tight.

The Economist

The second bedroom is tight.

The New York Times

Travel light: Security is tight.

The New York Times

The argument is tight enough.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is tight" to describe a schedule or timeline, ensure the context clearly indicates the limited timeframe. For example, "The deadline is tight, so we need to work efficiently."

Common error

While "is tight" is common, avoid overusing it in formal writing, especially when describing financial constraints. Alternatives like "is constrained" or "is limited" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is tight" functions primarily as a predicate adjective, describing a state or condition. According to Ludwig AI, this common phrase effectively conveys a sense of restriction, limitation, or firmness. Examples include "Security is tight" or "Money is tight."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is tight" is a versatile expression used to indicate limitation, restriction, or firmness. As shown by Ludwig, it frequently appears in contexts ranging from news to general discussions. The phrase is grammatically correct and widely understood, making it a reliable choice for conveying various meanings, such as limited time, budget constraints, or strict security measures. While predominantly neutral in register, it's important to consider the audience and choose more formal alternatives when appropriate. Understanding these nuances will allow you to use the phrase effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is constrained

Emphasizes limitation or restriction, often in the context of resources or space.

is restricted

Similar to "is constrained", but highlights a rule or regulation causing the limitation.

is limited

Focuses on the finite quantity or extent of something.

is scarce

Indicates a shortage or lack of availability.

is in short supply

A more descriptive way of saying something is not readily available.

is closely controlled

Highlights strict management or oversight.

is closely monitored

Focuses on careful observation and tracking.

is compact

Describes something that is densely packed or small in size.

is cramped

Suggests a lack of space, often causing discomfort.

is stringent

Highlights the rigidity and strictness of rules or conditions.

FAQs

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

"Is tight" can describe a variety of situations. For example, you can say "Security is tight at the airport" or "The budget is tight this year" depending on whether you mean physical security or financial constraints.

What phrases can I use instead of "is tight"?

Alternatives to "is tight" include "is constrained", "is limited", or "is scarce", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "time is tight"?

Yes, it is correct to say "time is tight". It means that there is very little time available to complete a task or activity. It's a common and acceptable expression.

What does it mean when someone says "money is tight"?

When someone says "money is tight", it means that they have limited financial resources available. It indicates a situation where spending needs to be carefully managed due to a lack of funds.