lack of width

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of width" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a deficiency or absence of width in various contexts, such as physical dimensions or metaphorical applications like ideas or perspectives. Example: "The lack of width in the design made the room feel cramped and uncomfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Results continued to underwhelm despite Mancini's presence, however, with the coach bemoaning a lack of width in the team.

The Guardian - Sport

Nathaniel Clyne had a fine game as an overlapping right-back but England played with a lack of width and penetration for the most part.

The Guardian - Sport

This desire to play centrally causes Ramsey to wander from the wing, leaving Arsenal with a lack of width and meaning the right hand side is exposed.

Independent

Pedestrian in possession and hamstrung by a lack of width further forward, Swansea never really troubled Chelsea until that tactical shift and a couple of substitutions led to them attacking with more urgency and conviction.

The Guardian - Sport

While they may have walked off 1-1 athehe break United had stuttered through the first half – with their lack of width allowing Cluj's containment job broadly to be confined to the parameters of the 18-yard box.

The Guardian - Sport

Surprisingly, in view of the fact that Ferguson blamed a lack of width for his team conceding two early goals in the home fixture, United went narrow again against Braga, with only Nani used as a winger.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

That has been the formation of choice throughout pre-season too, suggesting that instead of addressing the lack of attacking width, they will now seek to thrive in its absence.

The Guardian - Sport

Lack of road width to maneuver around slow-moving farm equipment can be problematic for drivers of farm equipment and passenger vehicles when navigating the roadways.

Injury Epidemiology

Their lack of any width is painful to watch for a club that's seen the likes of Bale and Lennon (come back soon, Azza!) in recent seasons blaze trails along the touchlines and send crosses into the box.

Huffington Post

BG Manchester United pair escape FA punishment for Palace incidents Manchester United finally show some signs of life under Mourinho Spurs' lack of pace and width is a problem that will not be resolved this season.

The Guardian - Sport

Lack of drive, no width, sloppy passing.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing spatial arrangements, specify which dimension is lacking. For example, instead of saying "The room suffered from a "lack of width", consider clarifying: "The room's "lack of width" made it difficult to arrange furniture effectively".

Common error

Avoid using "lack of width" metaphorically when a more precise term would be more effective. Instead of saying "The argument has a "lack of width", consider: "The argument lacks nuance" or "The argument is too narrowly focused".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of width" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It refers to the absence or deficiency of lateral dimension, extent, or scope. Ludwig examples show its use in describing limitations in physical spaces, sports formations, and abstract ideas.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

19%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of width" serves to highlight a deficiency in lateral dimension, scope, or breadth. As Ludwig's examples indicate, it is commonly used in sports analysis, architectural descriptions, and more abstract discussions. While grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, writers should consider the context to ensure that it is used precisely and effectively, avoiding overuse in metaphorical senses where more specific terms may be better suited. Alternatives such as "narrowness" or "insufficient breadth" can sometimes provide greater clarity. Despite its clear meaning, this phrase can occasionally be replaced by a more descriptive option in order to increase the overall quality of the message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

narrowness

Focuses on the limited extent from side to side; a more concise synonym.

insufficient breadth

Highlights the inadequacy of lateral extent or scope.

limited lateral space

Emphasizes the spatial restriction from side to side.

absence of breadth

Directly states the non-existence of breadth, often in abstract contexts.

want of lateral expansion

A more formal way to express the absence of sideways growth or spread.

restricted scope

Shifts the focus to limited range or extent, often in discussions or plans.

cramped space

Highlights the feeling of confinement due to limited dimensions.

constricted area

Suggests a reduction or limitation of space.

inadequate lateral dimension

A technical description highlighting the insufficient side-to-side measurement.

lack of spaciousness

Focuses on the absence of a feeling of openness and roominess.

FAQs

How can I use "lack of width" in a sentence?

You can use "lack of width" to describe a physical space, a formation in sports, or even an abstract concept. For example: "The team's "lack of width" in attack made them predictable" or "The design's "lack of width" resulted in an awkward layout".

What is a good alternative to "lack of width"?

Depending on the context, you could use "narrowness", "insufficient breadth", or "limited lateral space" as alternatives to "lack of width".

Is it correct to say "a lack of width" or "lack of width"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "lack of width" is more common. The article "a" is optional and depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

How does "lack of width" affect a sports team's performance?

In sports, a "lack of width" often means a team is not using the full playing area, making them easier to defend against. It can lead to predictable attacks and a "restricted scope" for offensive plays.