leave the floor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leave the floor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is exiting a physical space, such as a stage or a room, or in discussions where someone is relinquishing their turn to speak. Example: "After presenting his ideas, he decided to leave the floor to the next speaker."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Fans stayed to watch Kukoc leave the floor.

The New York Times - Sports

The pro-Bulgaria crowd is giving them a big cheer as they leave the floor.

The New York Times

My feet leave the floor, and the cat runs from the room.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This time he scarcely travels at all, and his feet hardly leave the floor.

The New York Times - Arts

They don't stop until, exhausted, they bow to the inevitable and leave the floor.

The Guardian - Arts

He stomps on the sideline, and sometimes his feet leave the floor and land with a startling thud.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Kaepernick had barely left the floor.

The New York Times - Sports

They left the floor clear.

The New York Times

This time, it was James who left the floor beaten.

The New York Times - Sports

It leaves the floor nice and dry afterwards too.

Independent

They were booed as they left the floor.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "leave the floor" in the context of a debate or discussion, ensure it's clear whether you mean physically leaving the space or yielding the speaking opportunity. Providing context avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "leave the floor" when you actually mean "conclude the presentation" or "end the speech". Be specific to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leave the floor" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of departing from a physical space or relinquishing a position (e.g., speaking in a debate). As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is readily usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

24%

Sports

18%

Less common in

Science

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Lifestyle

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leave the floor" is a versatile expression that can denote both a physical departure and the act of relinquishing a position, such as the right to speak. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically sound and widely used. Predominantly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Sports contexts, its neutral register makes it suitable for various situations. When writing, be mindful of potential ambiguity and ensure the context clarifies the intended meaning. For example, specify the context. While "yield the floor" is a good option to replace "leave the floor" in speaking-related cases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

step away from the podium

Specifically refers to leaving a speaking position.

yield the stage

Similar to stepping away from the podium, but more theatrical.

exit the premises

Focuses on the physical act of leaving a location.

depart from the scene

Focuses on leaving a particular location, often after an event.

exit the arena

Refers to leaving a sports or entertainment venue.

vacate the area

Emphasizes emptying or abandoning a space.

withdraw from the competition

Implies leaving a contest or event.

relinquish the space

Highlights giving up control or occupancy of an area.

conclude participation

Indicates ending involvement or activity.

terminate presence

A more formal way of saying to end or quit being present in some place.

FAQs

How can I use "leave the floor" in a sentence?

You can use "leave the floor" to describe physically exiting a space, such as "The athlete was helped to "leave the floor" after sustaining an injury". It can also mean yielding the speaking opportunity during a debate or meeting.

What does "leave the floor" mean in a political context?

In politics, "leave the floor" often refers to a senator or representative relinquishing their speaking time during a debate or session. This can be due to time limits, procedural rules, or strategic decisions.

What can I say instead of "leave the floor" when someone finishes speaking?

You could say "yield the floor", "relinquish the floor", or "conclude the presentation" depending on the situation.

What's the difference between "yield the floor" and "leave the floor"?

"Leave the floor" can refer to physically exiting a space or relinquishing a speaking opportunity. "Yield the floor" typically only means to relinquish the opportunity to speak.