island

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "island" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a landmass surrounded by water, or metaphorically to describe isolation or a separate area within a larger context. Example: "The island was a perfect getaway for those seeking solitude and peace away from the bustling city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I said it was increasingly dangerous for asylum seekers on the island and the humane policy should be to bring them to Darwin from Christmas Island for processing," she said.

The Guardian

Piras, who hailed from the town of Ittiri on the Mediterranean island, co-founded an olive oil and wine cooperative and was tasked with marketing its goods for export, the AP reported according to Italian media.

The Guardian

For a European island outpost with a population of just 330,000, it was a fairly heroic achievement from which they hope to progress by qualifying for Euro 2016.

The Guardian - Sport

Or, to be specific, blow kisses at my daughter, who grew fabulously adept at blowing them back and basking in her newfound glory as the only natural blonde on the island.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

An island that now charges you thousands of euros to spend a couple of nights in one of the tiny white cave dwellings that cling to its cliffs, magically transformed into some of the most glamorous hotels in the world.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Weddings on the island are seven-day affairs where the entire village is fed many times, so paying for one's own at 25 years of age is an achievement.

The Guardian

There are no guarantees that such scenic landscapes will remain unscathed if business starts to thrive on the island.

The Guardian

Unlike those on Qeshm, Hormuz island inhabitants are in no way wealthy, and so it will be capital brought from outside the island that will dictate the rules.

The Guardian

One of the unexpected pleasures of this magical island, incidentally, is how more or less everyone has a passionate interest in the English Premiership.

The Guardian - Travel

It had torn around round the island for about 36 hours, and given it a real thrashing, flattening vegetation, whipping off a few roofs and generally causing trouble.

The Guardian - Travel

There is no traffic on the island so the best way to explore the stunning Byzantine monasteries and Greek Orthodox churches is by bike or horse-drawn carriage.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use descriptive language to evoke the atmosphere and sensory experiences associated with the island, helping readers visualize the location.

Common error

Don't simply describe an "island" as a landmass surrounded by water. Instead, focus on its specific appeal: is it a volcanic "island", a coral "island", or perhaps a desert "island"? Specificity makes your writing more compelling.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "island" is as a noun, referring to a landmass surrounded by water. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across diverse contexts, further expanding its utility beyond simple descriptions. Example usage also shows the word's role as a proper noun, referencing specific geographic locations like Christmas "Island".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Travel

29%

Lifestyle

9%

Less common in

Business

4%

Opinion

4%

Books

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "island" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a landmass encircled by water. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability. While often used to describe actual geographic locations, it can also evoke themes of isolation or distinctiveness. Its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for diverse communication styles, though most frequently encountered in news and travel contexts. When using "island" in your writing, consider incorporating specific details to enhance the reader's engagement and avoid generic descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Isle

A synonym for island, often used in a more poetic or literary context.

Land surrounded by water

Describes the key geographical feature of an island.

Small landmass

Refers to a piece of land smaller than a continent, emphasizing size.

Remote territory

Focuses on the distant and isolated nature of an island.

Isolated haven

Highlights the island as a safe and solitary place.

Coastal land

Highlights the proximity of the land to a coast.

Secluded retreat

Emphasizes the isolation and potential for relaxation offered by an island.

Tropical paradise

Specifically refers to islands with tropical climates, implying beauty and relaxation.

Continental island

An island that was once part of a continent, distinguishing it from an oceanic island.

Archipelago component

Identifies the island as part of a larger group of islands.

FAQs

How can I use the word "island" in a sentence?

You can use "island" to describe a landmass surrounded by water. For example: "The tropical "island" is a popular tourist destination".

What are some synonyms for "island"?

Synonyms for "island" include "isle", "atoll", and "key", depending on the context.

What is the difference between an "island" and a peninsula?

An "island" is completely surrounded by water, while a "peninsula" is a piece of land that is connected to a larger landmass on one side and surrounded by water on the other three sides.

Is it correct to use "island" metaphorically?

Yes, "island" can be used metaphorically to describe something isolated or separate from its surroundings. For example, "an "island" of peace in a chaotic city".