it was getting dark

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "it was getting dark" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to describe the gradual transition from daylight to nighttime. Example: We decided to end our picnic early because it was getting dark and we didn't want to get caught in the woods at night.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

It was getting dark.

The New York Times - Sports

Already, it was getting dark.

The New Yorker

By this time, it was getting dark.

The New Yorker

"It was getting dark under the trees".

The New Yorker

By then it was getting dark.

The New York Times

It was getting dark, and those lightbulbs.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

It's getting dark.

The New Yorker

"It's getting dark," Kirsten said.

The New Yorker

MOSCOW — It's getting dark in Russia.

The New York Times

Outside, it's getting dark.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

How could it be getting dark already?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was getting dark" to create a sense of time and setting in your writing, indicating a transition towards night or a darker environment. This can subtly influence the mood and atmosphere of your scene.

Common error

While a useful phrase, avoid overusing "it was getting dark" in a single piece of writing. Vary your descriptions with more evocative language about the changing light and atmosphere to prevent repetition and enrich the reader's experience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was getting dark" functions as a descriptive clause, typically serving as an adverbial of time, indicating when something occurred or a state began. Ludwig examples showcase its role in setting a scene or providing context for an event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was getting dark" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the transition from daylight to nighttime. Ludwig AI validates its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, consider varying your language to avoid overuse and enhance the descriptive quality of your writing. Alternatives such as "twilight was setting in" or "darkness was approaching" can add nuance. Ensure your writing effectively sets the scene and conveys the passage of time by being mindful of the context and register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

darkness was approaching

Focuses on the arrival of darkness, rather than the process of becoming dark.

daylight was fading

Emphasizes the gradual disappearance of daylight.

twilight was setting in

Specifically refers to the twilight period, emphasizing the gentle onset of darkness.

night was falling

Highlights the commencement of night, a more dramatic way to describe the darkening.

the light was diminishing

Draws attention to the decreasing amount of light.

dusk was settling

Refers to the dusk period, focusing on the calmness and stillness associated with the transition to darkness.

the sun was setting

Focuses on the sun's descent as the cause of darkening.

it was becoming night

A more literal way of stating that night was starting.

shadows were lengthening

Emphasizes the visual effect of increasing darkness through the extension of shadows.

evening was arriving

Indicates the coming of evening, which is associated with increasing darkness.

FAQs

How can I use "it was getting dark" in a sentence?

You can use "it was getting dark" to describe the transition from daylight to night, setting a scene or indicating the passage of time. For example: "We had to hurry back home because "it was getting dark"."

What can I say instead of "it was getting dark"?

Alternatives include phrases like "night was falling", "twilight was setting in", or "darkness was approaching", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "it was getting dark"?

Yes, "it was getting dark" is grammatically correct and widely accepted in English. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage.

What's the difference between "it was getting dark" and "it was getting darker"?

"It was getting dark" describes the general transition to darkness, while "it was getting darker" emphasizes the increasing intensity of the darkness. The latter implies a more pronounced change in light levels.